Swift desert species where bipedality is common, the hind limbs may be quite strong and longer than the forelimbs. In species that can leap well, as in the American collared lizards (Crotaphytus), this situation is readily apparent. Those lizards not so swift of foot, such as horned lizards and Gila monsters, are equipped with strong nearly equal-sized limbs, usually with strong claws.
In regard to limbs, the geckos and certain Anolis have developed a special toe pad composed of millions of microscopic hooks which give the lizard the ability to scale most objects and to even walk along ceilings. While this feature is not universal among geckos, it is a trait by which most geckos are known.
The tail of many lizards is known as an excellent defense from predators because it can often be disconnected from the rest of the body. Being broken at a special point on the tail vertebra, the muscles and blood vessels allows almost no bleeding. In those lizards that rely heavily on this defense, the tail will eventually regenerate. This process of tail or limb loss is known as autotomy. The regrown tail will not as perfect as the original, nor will it contain any true vertebrae.
The tail has other purposes in other species. We already described the prehensile tail. In those forms that run bipedally, the tail is necessary organ of balance. Species that need this organ for balance, such as Crotaphytus and Chlamydosaurus, do not readily lose the tail.
Certain lizards have relatively short tails, with a special purpose. The Old World agamids Uromastix and Agama batil lifera have tails shorter than the head and body length, but these tails are equipped with sharp spines, a defense against potential predators. If they must secure themselves in a crevice, they keep the tail facing the entrance to discourage pursuit.
The Gila monster and beaded lizard both have bulky tails. This organ serves as a fat reserve from which the lizards can derive nourishment during times of bad hunting.
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