Knuckles Pygmy Lizard

This genus is endemic to Sri Lanka and consists of two species: Cophotis ceylanica and Cophotis dumbara.

Cophotis ceylanica is found in the high elevations of the Central Hills, including areas such as Nuwara Eliya, Hakgala, Horton Plains, Pattipola, Peak Wilderness, Ambewela, Blackpool, and Piduruthalagala. Cophotis dumbara, on the other hand, inhabits the cloud forests of the Knuckles Range. Both species share nearly identical physical features.

These lizards can grow up to 14 cm in length and primarily feed on small insects, with a preference for moths and bees. They are most commonly found on moss-covered branches, where their prehensile tails help them cling securely. Despite their small size, these lizards are capable of jumping up to 2-3 feet between branches and can rotate their eyes, much like chameleons.

They are oviparous, meaning they give birth to live young, typically 2-8 at a time.

These lizards are very sensitive and protecting them is very important. For that we need to protect their habitats by saving the cloud forests of Sri Lanka.