Mohawk Dunes Fringe-Toed Lizard

Range

Uma thurmanae is restricted to the Mohawk Dunes in the Mohawk Mountains of Arizona.

Identification

Like other fridge-toed lizards is a medium sized lizard with a flat body and a fragile tail. As a result of growth, the lizard grows in size ranging from 0 to 5cm as juveniles and 7 to.12.2cm for adults in total length. The body parts consists of a pointed snout for easy burrowing, moderately large eyes with interlocking eyelids, a countersunk lower jaw, flaps over the ear openings and valves in the nasal passages. It has small, harsh and granular scales. Usually, they are cream, tan and reddish-brown in colour but specifically, cream in the underside with blatant dark spots on the belly sides as well as on the throat. The unique orange coloration on the belly during breeding season as well as the dark lines on the neck and shoulders distinguish this lizard from the similar species. The dorsal side is marked with small orange spots and on the neck through to the shoulder, the spots form lines and eventually appear in rows. The scales on the back edges of the toes are special and pointed, looking like a fringe hence, the name by which it is called.

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