Western Earless Lizard

Range

Southwestern United States & into northern Mexico. Range extends north to South Dakota, south to northern Mexico, east to central Texas and west to western Arizona

Habitats

Terrestrial. Habitats include grasslands, chaparral, woodlands, and other open terrain.

Identification

Adult body length up to 2.75 inches, not including tail. Small, stout body with thin tapering tail. Back legs longer than front. Coloration occurs in gray, tan, or orangish-brown with a variety of marking patterns. Typically dorsal side has four rows of brown blotches and light specks running down length of body & tail. Sides have two black spots just behind front legs. Underside nearly uniform white in addition to the lack of ear openings, distinguishes it from similar species.

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