Desert Grassland Whiptail

Range

Ranges from central to southeastern Arizona, southwestern to central New Mexico, the tip of the Texas panhandle, and south into north central Mexico.

Habitats

Prefers semidesert grassland habitats, but can also be found in chaparral and woodland areas or riparian mesquite valleys and floodplains.

Identification

A long, slender lizard with a long tail and pointed snout. They are mainly dark brown to black with 6 distinct white or yellowish lines running the length of their body and fading into a solid tan or olive tail. The top of their head is solid tan and their ventrum is pale and unmarked. They reach an average total length of 3-5.25 inches. Their tail scales are keeled.

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