Gila Monster

Range

Western United States and Mexico in southeastern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, Arizona, southern New Mexico, Sonora and Sinaloa.

Habitats

Usually prefers deserts, grasslands and scrub over woodlands. Especially converges in areas directly under canyons and on rocky slopes near streams. Will hide under rocks, shrubs, or underground in rodents' nests. On average, individuals will spend most of their time hidden under some type of cover.

Identification

Large, thick venomous lizard with small, bulky tail and big head. Beaded scales on dorsum can be pink, yellow, or black and form distinct blotches. Belly scales more closely resemble squares and are overall flatter than dorsal scales. Feet, legs, and head are primarily black. Exhibits loose skin folds on neck and especially tough claws. Total length of mature males and females can range from 22 to 35 cm. Females lay eggs from July to August; clutches contain 6 to 13 young.

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