Tree Lizard’s Quick Release Escape System Makes Jumpers Turn Somersaults
Monday, February 23, 2009 - 11:23
in Biology & Nature
Lizards have the ultimate quick release escape system. When in a predator's grips, they drop their tails to escape. But what price do tree dwelling lizards pay for freedom? Biologists tested the effect the loss had on the lizards' mobility and found that the lizards are extremely compromised. They can no longer jump, somersaulting backwards, making it difficult to land safely when jumping between branches.