Anniellids are roughly the size of a pencil (about 20cm) with smooth, shiny scales that vary from silvery-beige to dark brown or black. They possess several features that distinguish them from snakes: Unlike snakes, they can blink.
Traditionally, this family was thought to contain only one or two species. However, a major taxonomic revision in 2013 identified several new species based on genetic and morphological data. Currently, the family includes one genus, , with six recognized species: anniellidae
( A. alexanderae ): Found in a very limited range at the base of the Temblor Mountains. Anniellids are roughly the size of a pencil
They prefer loose, moist, sandy soil, leaf litter, or dunes where they can easily burrow. They are rarely seen on the surface and spend most of their time within 2–3 inches of the soil. However, a major taxonomic revision in 2013 identified
Many species in this family face threats from due to urban development, agriculture, and oil/gas exploration. Species like the Temblor Legless Lizard ( A. alexanderae ) have been petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act due to their extremely limited and fragmented ranges. Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra)
( A. geronimensis ): Restricted to coastal sand dunes in northwest Baja California.
Anniellids are ovoviviparous (live-bearing), typically producing 1 to 4 young between September and November after a four-month gestation. Conservation Status