Texas Spiny Lizard

Range

This lizard is endemic to the United States and Mexico. Its range is the south-central USA; Texas, Arizona, and Oklahoma. In northeastern Mexico, it is found in Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, and San Luis Potosi.

Habitats

This is an arboreal lizard that can be found on mesquite trees, oak trees, and others. They can also be found on fence posts, bridges, and buildings. They are associated with scrub vegetation. Mating season is through spring and summer. Females deposit eggs in soil or underground. They prey on insects including beetles.

Identification

The Texas spiny lizard averages between 7.5-11 inches in total length. This species typically has a grey coloration with blotches of red-brown, black, or white on the back. Geographic location may cause patterns to vary as the pattern and colors are suited to match the bark of trees and the general environment of its habitat. The underside has a uniform light grey color. However, males possess a pair of blue patches a blotch on each side of the belly. The scales are spiny and the toes are long, the claws on their feet are well designed for climbing.

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