telescopilla

Telescopilla is a genus of lizards belonging to the comb-eared skink family (Diplodactylidae). It is found in Australia, and was previously considered part of the family Chamaeacanthidae, but the classification has been revised since.

There are several species within the Telescopilla genus, including T. gazella and T. occidentalis. These species are considered to be small, slender lizards, typically reaching lengths of approximately 10-15 centimeters. They have distinctive characteristics, including a small, rounded snout, and a highly keeled, elongated body shape.

Telescopilla species are typically found inhabiting open, arid, and semi-arid regions of Australia, including deserts and grasslands. They are ground-dwelling lizards, often burrowing in search of insects, seeds, and other small invertebrates.

Some studies have observed that Telescopilla species are highly adept at rock-surfing, traversing rocks with ease as they forage and travel across the landscape. This unique adaptation is thought to be an example of convergent evolution, as rock-surfing abilities are also present in other related lizard species.

Telescopillas are oviparous, laying eggs without any external incubation by parents. This reproductive strategy is common among skink species, allowing the young lizards to hatch and fend for themselves after a short incubation period.

Telescopillas are generally small, and an individual's size and potentially its existence go often unnoticed by many members of the human population, leading to relatively low media attention toward the species until recently with the aid of Internet archives and modern technologies.