Burrow characteristics and microhabitat use of the Egyptian Spiny-tailed Lizard, Uromastyx aegyptia, in northern Saudi Arabia

The Egyptian Spiny-tailed Lizard, Uromastyx aegyptia (Forsk & aring;l, 1775), inhabits the arid regions of the Middle East, where it relies heavily on self-dug burrows for thermoregulation and protection. This study investigates the burrow characteristics and microhabitat use of this species in the Ha'il region of northern Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from 369 active burrows over a five-year period (2013-2019), recording variables such as burrow entrance orientation, soil type, vegetation cover, and environmental factors including temperature, humidity, and light intensity. The results showed that burrow entrances were primarily oriented toward the north, northeast, and east, likely to reduce direct solar exposure. Burrows with north-facing entrances exhibited significantly cooler internal temperatures compared to those with south-facing entrances, while relative humidity was lower in north-facing burrows. The lizards showed a preference for burrows located in coarse sand and microhabitats with low to moderate vegetation cover. Given the ongoing rise in temperatures due to climate change, longterm monitoring of burrow characteristics, particularly entrance orientation, may provide valuable insights into how this species adapts to shifting environmental conditions.