Nature Field Guide
O’Shaughnessy’s Galliwasp
- Spanish name
- Lagartija de hojarasca
- Scientific name
- Mesoamericus bilobatus
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “What helps this reptile fit into its habitat?”
Tati: “Let’s look at its shape, colors and surroundings while giving it plenty of space.”
Species overview
About the O’Shaughnessy’s Galliwasp
This galliwasp has a long body, a tapering tail and short but distinct legs. Smooth-looking scales and brown tones can make it resemble a skink at first glance. It is a lizard, not a snake.
Older references use the name Diploglossus bilobatus. Scientific names can change as researchers study relationships, while the living animal and its need for shelter remain the same. This secretive reptile uses humid forest cover. Protect the small spaces under natural debris by leaving logs and leaf litter undisturbed.
Identification
Key Features of the O’Shaughnessy’s Galliwasp
Elongated smooth-looking body
Four short legs
Brown coloration and a long tail
Habitat & range
Humid forests of the Caribbean slope and southwestern Pacific, including a documented population at Tirimbina.
Local observations
Native species recorded in Costa Rica. Sightings depend on suitable habitat and locality.
When to observe
Observe on a suitable guided outing. Activity varies with weather, season and locality; do not disturb a resting or hidden animal.
Conservation & care
Observe with an adult from permitted paths. Do not touch, chase, catch or feed reptiles. Leave bark, logs, stones and leaf litter in place. Keep pets away and allow an open escape route.
Threats & pressures
Protect connected habitat and natural shelters. Avoid collection, unnecessary clearing and deliberate killing. Leave wildlife in place and support responsible observation.
Observation activity
Count the visible limbs in the illustration. Compare its outline with a snake without approaching either animal.
Explore by location
Caribbean · Central Pacific · Northern Plains · South Pacific · Alajuela · Heredia · Limón · Puntarenas · San José