Twin-Spotted Spiny Lizard

Range

This specie can be found across southeastern Arizona at elevations reaching about 750 – 1,500 m.

Habitats

This Lizard can be located mainly in Chihuahuan Desert scrub as well as Semidesert Grassland communities. They are diurnal animals. They bask on any place the sun perches. It also hibernates during the cold months which include winter and late fall. These lizards’ diets are made up of a large variety of insects. They could also eat other invertebrates, small vertebrates and plant matter. Mating occurs in spring and summer. The females lay one or two clutches. Each clutch comprises of about 2 – 12 eggs. These then hatches either in late May or July. July is more usual.

Identification

This is a large lizard whose length reaches 142 mm from its snout to vent. It is sturdy with big, pointed, keeled and overlapping scales. Its primary color is grey or brown. It could also be a tan color. The male gender of this specie has two longitudinal rows of dark blotches on the specie's back. Also, yellow or orange scales are irregularly dispersed on its sides. Each shoulder of this specie is marked by a black, wedge shape. The males also have two big and vivid blue-green blotches on their bellies with the blue-green blotch on its throat.

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