Two residents of Navi Mumbai, Pradeep Choudhary and Madhav Athwale, successfully photographed a fan-throated lizard at the Chalkewadi Plateau in Satara earlier this month. This striking reptile is known for its vibrant, fan-like extension of skin on its throat, which it uses for display during mating rituals, territorial disputes, warding off rivals, and even cooling down its body temperature.
Unique Characteristics of the Lizard
Only male fan-throated lizards display their colorful throat fans, which they blow intermittently. The duo traveled approximately 250 kilometers to capture these images over two consecutive days, spending five hours each day to get the perfect shot.
Challenges in Spotting the Lizard
Pradeep Choudhary remarked, "These lizards are not easy to spot as they camouflage with sand. Only those who know about them are able to locate them." The dedicated effort highlights the patience and expertise required for wildlife photography.
