Baja California collared lizard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Baja California collared lizard |
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| Crotaphytus vestigium | |
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Crotaphytus
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| Species: |
vestigium
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The Baja California collared lizard (Crotaphytus vestigium) is a cool type of lizard. It belongs to the family called Crotaphytidae. This lizard is endemic, meaning it is found only in specific places. These places are southern California in the United States and Baja California in Mexico.
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What Does the Baja California Collared Lizard Look Like?
This collared lizard is a large lizard with a wide head. It has a short snout and small, bumpy scales. A special feature is its two clear black collar markings. These markings are separated by more than 12 light-colored scales on its back.
The lizard's body is usually tan or olive green. It has wide, dark bands across its body. Adult lizards grow to be about 6.9 to 11.2 centimeters (around 2.7 to 4.4 inches) long. This measurement is from its snout to the start of its tail. Young lizards look similar to adults, but their bands are even clearer. Male lizards have larger scales near their tail. They also have a blue-grey throat and big dark spots on their sides.
How Does This Lizard Behave?
The Baja California collared lizard is a very fast runner. It can even run on its two back legs! Adult lizards can bite if they feel threatened. Their bite can be quite painful.
Where Does the Baja California Collared Lizard Live?
The Baja California collared lizard is not very common. It likes to live in rocky areas. It especially prefers places called washes. These are dry streambeds that sometimes fill with water after rain.
Is the Baja California Collared Lizard Safe?
Scientists have not found any big threats to the Baja California collared lizard. This is good news for the species. It also lives in several protected areas. These areas help keep the lizards and their homes safe.
