Foraging Behaviours in Excavated Microhabitats: A Study of Agama aculeata

Abstract

We investigated the microhabitat use and foraging behaviour of Agama aculeata in a semi-arid region of Botswana. We observed 33 individuals (17 females, 5 males and 11 juveniles) over a 10-day period, recording their foraging events, movements and microhabitat preferences. Our findings reveal significant differences in foraging and movement behaviours among age and sex classes. Females primarily relied on a sit-and-wait strategy near excavations, while males exhibited more frequent movements and a wider range of foraging tactics. Juveniles were more active foragers, often capturing prey through approaches rather than snaps. Microhabitat use also varied, with females preferring excavations and juveniles opting for arboreal positions. Our results indicate that A. aculeata exhibit distinct behavioural adaptations related to their age, sex and reproductive status. Further research is needed to explore the underlying factors driving differences, such as predation pressure, competition for resources and thermoregulation.