About Ichnotropis capensis (Smith, 1838)
Ichnotropis capensis is a species of medium-sized lizard with slender bodies, long tails, and well-developed legs. Most collected specimens have a snout-to-vent length (SVL) of less than 76 mm. This species shares all general characteristics of the Ichnotropis genus: it has keeled or overlapping dorsal scales, and head shields that range from smooth to slightly rough. Subocular scales border the lip, and no collar is present. Smooth or tubular lamellae occur under the toes, and the toes do not have a serrated or fringed edge. The cylindrical tail has no lateral fringe. Ichnotropis capensis differs notably from other members of its genus because its hind legs do not reach the underarm of the forelimbs. Adult individuals have uniform grey to yellowish brown backs, with white lateral stripes that may be bordered by dark black spots. Juveniles have a pale grey and brown back with white lateral stripes. This species lives in semi-arid shrub savannas in Africa, where it shelters in burrows dug in soft soil, under rocks, and under brush. It has been recorded in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Zambia.
