Holcosus festivus Middle American Ameiva
Also known as:
Central American Ameiva, Central American Whiptail, Tiger Ameiva
This species was recently moved into the genus Holcosus; it was formerly known as Ameiva festiva.
Trail from Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, Golfito region, Puntarenas province, Costa RicaSeptember 26, 2001
Middle American Ameiva (Holcosus festivus)
These brightly colored ameivas were abundant in the leaf litter, but hard to approach for photography or capturing. The one pictured here is a juvenile, and is the only we managed to catch.

Here is a complete list of the species we found on this GreenTracks trip.
Sueño Azul Resort, Sarapiqui, Puntarenas province, Costa RicaAugust 10, 2010
Middle American Ameiva (Holcosus festivus)
Here's a reasonably large adult basking in a sunny spot. The adults aren't quite as beautiful as the youngsters, but are still fine-looking lizards.
Cobán, Alta Verapaz, GuatemalaMay 16, 2024
Middle American Ameiva (Holcosus festivus)
This guy was prowling about on our lodge's dining area floor, helpfully keeping it clear of excess invertebrates.

Here is a list of all the reptiles and frogs I saw on this trip to Guatemala.

Morales, Izabal, GuatemalaMay 27, 2024
Middle American Ameiva (Holcosus festivus) Middle American Ameiva (Holcosus festivus)
I was surprised to see a large adult of this diurnal species skulking about in the leaf litter late at night.

Here is a list of all the reptiles and frogs I saw on this trip to Guatemala.

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