Observations on the nocturnal activity of lizards in a marshy area in Serra do Navio, Brazil

Abstract

Lizards normally considered to be diurnal inhabitants of forest-floor leaf-litter were found, during field work in Serrado Navio, Amapá State in a rather special habitat, the margin of a large, marshy, open area at the side of a creek, completely surrounded by rainforest, with a thick layer of leaf-litter on a very wet and muddy substrate. In this location they were extremely numerous and active during nights with a nearly full moon. Some speculations about the causes for this behaviour are made.

Key Words:

• diurnal/nocturnal activity
• rainforest
• lizards
• Brazil