A TRAPPING TECHNIQUE FOR CAPTURING LARGE ACTIVE LIZARDS

Abstract

A method is described for capturing large Uromastyx aegyptius (Agamidae). A hooped fishing net trap is placed around the burrow, and set to block the entrance when pulled. The operator releases the trap when the lizard is out foraging, and it is trapped as it tries to reenter its burrow. The technique is simple and cheap, and captures large lizards, safely, and sufficiently rapidly for body temperature readings. It is applicable to other burrow-living lizards, e.g. Cordylus giganteus.