Orange-Throated Whiptail

Range

Ranges throughout the Baja Peninsula and the southwestern corner of California.

Habitats

This species likes semi-arid habitat with lots of scrub and loose, gravely substrate. It often digs through ground debris while foraging. It can be found in coastal chaparral, dry washes, or rocky hillsides.

Identification

This lizard averages 2-3 inches in snout to vent length. Like all whiptails, it has a pointed snout, plate-like scales on its head, granular body scales, and sharply keeled scales on its long tail. It also has very long toes on its hind feet. Its back is patterned with 5-6 light longitudinal stripes on a dark background. These stripes begin just behind the eyes, and fade part way down the tail. Its hind legs have a grey mottled pattern. Its ventrum is typically yellowish or cream colored. Males and some females have a bright orange throat.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians