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:
They can drop their tails to distract predators. anniellidae
The family, commonly known as American legless lizards , is a unique group of fossorial (burrowing) reptiles endemic to western North America, primarily California and Baja California , Mexico. Though they are often mistaken for snakes, they are true lizards that have evolved a limbless form to better navigate subterranean environments. Taxonomy and Diversity Traditionally, this family was thought to contain only
They lack external ear openings but retain vestigial traces of a pectoral girdle. Ecology and Behavior The family, commonly known as American legless lizards
( A. pulchra ): Found from the San Francisco Bay Area south through central California.
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.
They are insectivores, primarily eating insects, larvae, and spiders.