Reptile · GBIF taxon 2472164
Giant Ameiva
Ameiva ameivaAlso known as Green Ameiva, South American Ground Lizard, Amazon Racerunner
Giant ameivas are swift, sun-loving teiid lizards that sprint across forest floors and savannas in search of prey. Males develop vivid emerald-green coloration across their front halves and bulky jowls as they mature, while females and juveniles retain subdued brown and mottled patterns. When foraging, they probe leaf litter and loose soil with constant tongue-flicks, using sharp claws to unearth hidden invertebrates.
DiurnalReptileFast-moving
—observations
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—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Insects
- Spiders
- Small lizards
Predators
- Birds of prey
- Snakes
- Feral cats
ThreatsHabitat clearance, predation by invasive domestic animals, and vehicle strikes
HabitatsRainforest edges, savannas, dry scrub, coastal dunes, and open woodlands
Life span4–8 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyTeiidae
- GenusAmeiva
- SpeciesAmeiva ameiva
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Can deliver a painful defensive bite and scratch if grabbed; observe from a respectful distance.
Responsible observation
- Move slowly: Approach with deliberate steps because quick silhouettes send them darting for deep cover.
- Look near sunspots: Scan open patches of sand, dirt paths, and fallen logs during warm midday hours.
- Listen for rustling: Track the sound of dry leaf litter being actively dug through as they search for food.
Predator (c) Dario Sanches, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Image unavailableSame Family 
Same Family Diego Tirira from Quito, Ecuador / CC BY-SA 2.0 · cc-by-sa
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