Caiman Lizards are a large species of lizard native to South America and related to the Tegu.
They are semi-aquatic and spend a lot of time in the water. Caiman lizards are found in Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Peru, and the Guianas. They live in swampy habitats or other flooded woodlands, where they spend most of their time basking on low branches and roots overhanging marshes, flooded forests and streams. This allows them to make a quick escape from sudden danger by dropping into the water.
Jaguars, snakes and crocodiles prey on these large lizards, but they have few other predators in the wild. Their ability to both climb and swim helps them to avoid danger.
Named for the large heavy scales that resemble those of the caiman
crocodile. They have a third clear eyelid that acts as a goggle when underwater.
The carnivorous caiman lizard feeds primarily on invertebrates, such as snails, crawfish and freshwater clams. They are also known predators of Amazon river turtles. Once a prey item is caught, the lizard raises its head, moving the meal into position at the back of its powerful jaws. Then, it crushes the animal with its strong back teeth, spits out the broken shell and consumes the softer part of its prey.
They are known to live over 10 years in captivity.