Japanese Grass Lizard

This 15–27 cm long lizard is found in grassy areas and thickets, as well as around human homes. It is diurnal, sleeping at night on fallen leaves and grass, and carnivorous, preferring insects and spiders as food. Its main characteristic is its long tail, which is about twice the length of its head and body. When attacked, it escapes by climbing up grass or dead branches. It can also cut off its own tail, and the severed tail moves violently to distract its enemy while it escapes. Unlike the Japanese skink (Plestiodon japonicus), it has rough, shiny scales. It also has a single white line running from below its eyes to its sides. It lays eggs several times from spring to summer, laying 2–6 eggs at a time.