Anguis

Anguis is a genus of legless lizards in the family Anguidae. These reptiles are commonly known as slow worms or blind worms. They are found in Europe and Western Asia. Species within the genus Anguis are characterized by their elongated, snake-like bodies and the absence of external limbs. Their scales are smooth and imbricate, and their eyelids are movable. They are fossorial, meaning they spend much of their time burrowing in the soil or leaf litter. Their diet primarily consists of slow-moving invertebrates such as slugs, snails, and earthworms. Despite their common names, they are not snakes and possess distinct reptilian features, including eyelids and external ear openings. Reproduction is viviparous, with females giving birth to live young. Anguis fragilis, the common slow worm, is the most widespread species. They are generally docile and pose no threat to humans. Their conservation status varies by species and region, with some populations facing threats from habitat loss and fragmentation.