Burton's legless lizard

[4] Members in genus Lialis are considered analogous to macrostomatan snakes as these taxonomic groups have functionally similar adaptations such as the ability to swallow relatively large prey whole.

[9][16] Lastly, the ability of the species to retract its eyes is of key importance as it is a visual predator that relies on eyesight and this adaptation effectively protects them during conflict.

[6][10] It is usually found in low vegetation or debris on the ground such as leaf litter which has been shown to be important to specimens located in tropical environments.

[4][6] This was demonstrated in an experiment where individuals were given a choice of several thermally comparable environments and there was an overwhelming preference for leaf litter by specimens from the tropics.

[3][10][17] In addition, it has been reported that this species will eat small snakes on rare occasions and this has been documented in a study of the stomach contents of museum specimens.

[4][10] The species is oviparous and eggs are generally laid from November to January, although, reproduction can occur at any time outside of the usual breeding season and females are capable of laying more than one clutch each year.

[10][18] Another characteristic that has been discovered is the ability of females of this species to either store sperm for reproduction at a later time or to reproduce through parthenogenesis which does not require mating to be successful.

[citation needed] Burton's legless lizard is generally a diurnal feeder as prey is most commonly encountered during the day but it can be active at any time.

[4] Another reason for it to move at night is to avoid revealing its ambush position in the day when it has the highest likelihood of encountering an otherwise unsuspecting prey item.

[4] In addition, there is geographic variation in movement and feeding patterns which is expected as this species is very widespread and inhabits a variety of different environments.

[4] Deep leaf litter for example, is very good shelter as individuals can bury themselves at an appropriate depth to regulate temperature and remain hidden at the same time.

Burton's legless lizard and its elongated snout and distinctive wedge-shaped head
Burton's legless lizard on some sticks
Burton's legless lizard on sand
Burton's legless lizard cleaning its spectacle
Burton's legless lizard on a rocky surface