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Many
lizards have the ability to lose a portion of their tail and
then grow it back again. These lizards are said to be autonomous.
Lizards will drop their tail if they feel frightened or threatened.
Once the tail has separated from the lizard it will wiggle
around on the ground for a few moments. At this point the
lizard will attempt to make its escape while the predator
is distracted by the movement of the separated tail.
Depending upon where the tail breaks loose varying degrees
of blood loss can occur. If the break occurs close to the
body of the lizard there is a high chance of considerable
blood loss which can be dangerous to the health of the lizard.
Furthermore, stitches may be required to seal the wound on
the lizard’s body. Depending on the type of lizard the
tail may or may not grow back. If the lizard’s tail
does grow back it is unlikely that it will look like the original.
Most lizards are also unable to drop their tail for a second
time as the bone structure will not allow it.
In captivity the tail of a lizard can break if care is not
taken when handling the lizard. However, if a tail break does
occur be sure to keep the wound clean and apply and antibiotic
ointment on a regular basis. If healing does not begin almost
immediately the attention of a veterinarian is required. As
mentioned above the closer the tail breaks to the body of
the lizard the more likely it is to bleed significantly. |
