In Nevada, there are 3 fascinating types of horned lizards that you may encounter if you’re lucky enough. These creatures, sometimes called horned toads, are actually reptiles with plump bodies, short legs, and bumpy, scaly skin. But what sets them apart from other animals is their unique ability to shoot blood from their eyes! In this guide, you will learn about the Greater Short-Horned Lizard, the Pygmy Short-Horned Lizard, and the Desert Horned Lizard that inhabit different regions of Nevada. Each species has its own distinctive characteristics and habits, making them a true wonder of nature. So let’s delve into these amazing creatures and discover what makes them so intriguing!

Types of Horned Lizards Found in Nevada

Greater Short-Horned Lizard

The Greater Short-Horned Lizard, also known by its scientific name Phrynosoma hernandesi, is one of the three types of horned lizards found in Nevada. This species is easily identifiable by its beige, tan, or reddish coloring speckled with white. It has short and stubby horns located on the back of its head and to each side. The Greater Short-Horned Lizard measures between 1.75 and 4.75 inches in length from snout to vent, not including the tail.

This species prefers to live in northeastern Nevada in shortgrass prairies and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Their habitat is generally semi-arid, with long dry spells and infrequent but heavy rain. Greater Short-Horned Lizards primarily feed on ants but have a varied diet that includes grasshoppers, beetles, wasps, caterpillars, spiders, and even snails. One interesting fact about the Greater Short-Horned Lizard is that it gives birth to live young and can produce up to 48 babies in one birth!

Pygmy Short-Horned Lizard

The Pygmy Short-Horned Lizard, scientifically known as Phrynosoma douglasii, is the second type of horned lizard found in Nevada. It is slightly smaller than the Greater Short-Horned Lizard, measuring between 1.25 and 2.5 inches in length from snout to vent. The Pygmy Short-Horned Lizard can be easily identified by the single row of fringe scales lining the sides of its body.

This species is commonly found in northern Nevada in rocky terrain with pockets of fine, loose soil. It prefers open plains with sagebrush or open pine forests. What sets the Pygmy Short-Horned Lizard apart from other species is its tolerance to colder temperatures. It can even live in mountainous regions at elevations of up to 11,000 feet! The Pygmy Short-Horned Lizard primarily feeds on ants and uses its unique defense mechanism of burying itself in the soil to protect against predators.

Desert Horned Lizard

The Desert Horned Lizard, scientifically known as Phrynosoma platyrhinos, is the third and final type of horned lizard found in Nevada. It measures between 2.5 and 3.75 inches in length from snout to vent, and its coloration ranges from brown, tan, reddish, gray, to black. Wavy, dark blotches dot its back and neck, and it has a blunt snout and short horns.

As its name suggests, the Desert Horned Lizard prefers the arid climate of sandy flats and dunes in desert regions of Nevada. It can often be found in areas with cactus, creosote, and saltbush. One fascinating aspect of the Desert Horned Lizard is its hidden talent for dancing. It performs intricate mating dances that involve head bobbing, weaving, and tail movements. The dances are mainly done to attract a mate. To observe a Desert Horned Lizard, one can drive slowly in its habitat during the late afternoon, as they are often seen sunning themselves on warm pavements.

Field Guide Recommendation

For those interested in learning more about horned lizards and other reptiles and amphibians in Western regions, the Peterson Field Guides to Western Reptiles and Amphibians is a highly recommended resource. This field guide offers detailed information on the identification, distribution, and natural history of various species, including horned lizards. It is a valuable tool for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nevada is home to three types of horned lizards: the Greater Short-Horned Lizard, the Pygmy Short-Horned Lizard, and the Desert Horned Lizard. Each species has unique identifying characteristics, preferred habitats, and interesting adaptations for survival. Whether it’s the live birth of the Greater Short-Horned Lizard, the cold tolerance of the Pygmy Short-Horned Lizard, or the mating dances of the Desert Horned Lizard, these reptiles are fascinating and important contributors to Nevada’s diverse ecosystem.

For further exploration of Nevada’s wildlife, you might be interested in reading the following related articles:

“The 18 Types of SNAKES That Live in Nevada! (ID Guide)”
“6 Types of Toads Found in Nevada! (With Photos)”

These articles provide valuable information on other reptiles and amphibians that can be found in Nevada, expanding your knowledge of the local fauna.

Social Media Interaction

We would love to hear about your experiences with horned lizards in Nevada! If you have encountered any of the three types mentioned or have any interesting stories or observations to share, please leave a comment below. Your input and engagement help us create a community of wildlife enthusiasts and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Recommended Products or Resources

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Author Bio

[Author Name] is a wildlife enthusiast and nature lover who enjoys exploring and studying the flora and fauna of different regions. With a background in [relevant field of expertise], they strive to educate and inspire others to appreciate and conserve the natural world. Through their articles, [Author Name] hopes to impart knowledge and foster a sense of wonder and curiosity about the incredible diversity of life on our planet.

3 Types of Horned Lizards Found in Nevada! (ID Guide)