WORM-LIKE LIZARDS 
AMPHISBAENAS 
The amphisbaenas are burrowing, worm-like lizards, specially adapted 
for raiding anthills in such diverse areas as western Mexico, Lower Cali¬ 
fornia, the Mediterranean region and Africa. Their name is taken from 
that of a mythical monster which possessed a second head in place of a 
tail and, as the Greek word indicates, could move forward or backward 
with equal ease. Although this legless lizard actually has but one head, it 
is hard for the untrained eye to distinguish the head from the short, rounded 
tail, for the creature’s eyes and ears, adapted to subterranean life, are 
concealed. Like the mythical monster, the amphisbaena is able by means of 
its wormlike rings, to move forward or backward in a series of vertical 
undulations. The rings are divided into tiny squares, which help the reptile 
to grip smooth surfaces. 
Among primitive peoples the belief is still common that amphisbaenas 
possess two heads, and that one is awake while the other sleeps. The reptile 
seems aware of the resemblance between its extremities, for when attacked, 
it will hold its tail erect, simulating the head. According to Van Denburgh, 
as the enemy attacks the supposed head the lizard will swing its true head 
around and inflict a powerful bite. 
The scalation, usual in most lizards, has disappeared from the amphis¬ 
baena, except for vestiges on the head. In most species legs are totally 
lacking. The teeth are not set in sockets, but are consolidated with the 
jaw itself. 
The white amphisbaena of South America is the largest member of 
the family, attaining a length of two feet, with a girth of only one inch. 
Amphisbaenas are often found in manure piles, where they burrow in 
search of grubs. 
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