Shovel-snouted lizard
# Shovel-snouted lizard

The shovel-snouted lizard (Meroles anchietae), also known commonly as Anchieta's desert lizard, Anchieta's dune lizard and the Namib sand-diver, is a species of lizard in the family Lacertidae. The species is native to southern Africa.

## Etymology

The specific name, anchietae, is in honor of Portuguese naturalist José Alberto de Oliveira Anchieta, who was an explorer of Africa.

## Geographic range

M. anchietae is found in Angola and Namibia.

## Habitat

The preferred natural habitat of M. anchietae is desert, with aeolian sand dunes and sparse vegetation, at altitudes from sea level to 500 m (1,600 ft).

## Description

Adults of M. anchietae have a snout-to-vent length (SVL) of about 5 cm (2.0 in).

## Diet

M. anchietae preys upon insects, especially small beetles. During dry periods when insects are scarce, it will eat seeds.

## Reproduction

M. anchietae is oviparous.

