Sheltopusik

Due to its size, the scheltopusik tends to respond to harassment by hissing, biting, and musking. It is less likely to drop off its tail than some other species that display caudal autotomy. However, these occasional displays of caudal autotomy are responsible for the name "glass lizard" (or "glass snake"). The released tail may break into pieces, leading to the myth that the lizard can shatter like glass and reassemble itself later. In reality, if the tail is lost, it grows back slowly, but is shorter and darker; it may grow back to full length as it grows.

This lizard inhabits open country such as short grassland or sparsely wooded hills.

The scheltopusik consumes arthropods and small mammals.

About 10 weeks after mating, the female lays about eight eggs which she hides under bark or a stone, and often guards them.