Abstract
We observed lizards in artificial crevices to examine behaviors that make them harder for predators to dislodge from crevices or burrows. We used four focal species and made additional observations of 13 cordyliform species. There were pronounced differences in defensive behaviors within crevices among species. Within crevices, representatives of several lizard taxa pressed some portions of their dorsal surfaces against crevice roofs, pushing upward with their legs, and used the tail to block access to their bodies. Two species of cordylids also tilted their heads down, bringing the lower jaw into contact with the floor and pressing the neck and posterodorsal head against the roof. Additionally, Uromastyx aegyptius and Sauromalus ater wedged themselves into crevices by inflating their bodies. We discuss interspecific differences in within-crevice defenses in relation to the unique defensive repertoires of each taxon.