[5] It grows to a maximum total length (body + tail) of 75 cm (30 in).

In Africa it occurs in eastern Egypt east of the Nile and as far south as the 24th parallel.

[2] It occurs in rocky deserts, from sea level to altitudes as high as 2,500 m (8,200 ft).

[4] In order to maintain nomenclatural stability, Stimson (1974) proposed that E. coloratus be validated over E. froenata.

The ICZN subsequently gave coloratus precedence over froenata by use of its plenary powers.