If you’ve ever spotted a lizard basking on a rock or a garden wall, you have likely seen them performing a series of rapid, rhythmic "press-ups.
While it looks like they are training for a reptilian Olympics, these push-ups are actually a sophisticated form of multi-purpose communication.
Here is why lizards are the ultimate gym rats of the animal kingdom:
1. The "Keep Out" Sign (Territorial Display)
The primary reason for lizard press-ups is to mark their territory. For a lizard, a prime basking spot with good sun exposure is high-value real estate. By bobbing up and down, they make themselves appear larger and more intimidating to other males. It is a visual shout that says, This rock is occupied, and I am strong enough to defend it
2. Attracting a Mate (The Courtship Dance)
Just as they use push-ups to scare off rivals, male lizards use them to impress females. In the lizard world, physical stamina is a sign of good health and strong genes. A male who can perform vigorous, high-energy press-ups is signaling to potential mates that he is fit, well-fed, and capable of providing healthy offspring.
3. Showing Off the "Colors"
Many lizard species such as the agamas the Blue-flecked lizard have brightly colored patches on their throats (gularfolds) or bellies. These colors are often hidden when the lizard is flat against the ground. By doing a press-up, they expose these vibrant colors to onlookers. These flashes of orange, blue, or red serve as a biological "ID card" and a status symbol.
4. Thermoregulation (Cooling Down)
While most press-ups are social, some are purely functional. Lizards are ectothermic (cold-blooded), meaning they rely on the environment for heat. If a rock becomes too hot, a lizard might lift its body off the surface to allow air to circulate underneath, helping to regulate its body temperature and prevent its internal organs from overheating.
5. Predatory Deterrence
Interestingly, lizards sometimes do press-ups when they spot a predator, like a bird or a snake. This seems counterintuitive—why draw attention to yourself? Scientists believe this is a pursuit-deterrent signal. The lizard is telling the predator, i see you, and I have so much excess energy that I can waste it on these push-ups. Don't bother chasing me; you won't catch me.
Summary Table: Lizard Press-up Meanings
Context | Meaning
To another male "Get off my lawn; I'm stronger than you.
To a female"Look at my colors and my stamina; I'm a great catch.
On a hot rock "It’s a bit toasty; I need some airflow.
To a predator" I see you, and I'm too fast for you to catch.
The next time you see a lizard doing its morning workout, remember: it isn't trying to get "shredded." It’s talking to the world without saying a single word.
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