Crotaphytus reticulatus

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iReticulate Collared Lizard
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Sauropsida Order: Squamata Suborder: Sauria Family: Crotaphytidae Genus: Crotaphytus Species: C. reticulatus
Binomial name
Crotaphytus reticulatus (Baird, 1858)

The Reticulate Collared Lizard (Crotaphytus reticulatus) is a moderately sized lizard native to the semi-arid, rocky regions of the American state of Texas, and the Mexican states of Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas.

Contents 1 Description 2 Behavior 3 Conservation concerns 4 References

[edit] Description

The reticulate collared lizard is grey or brown in color with a white or light grey network of lines on its dorsal surface that are remniscent of a honey comb pattern. Symmetrical black spots fill in some of the pattern. The ventral surface is white or a cream color. They can grow to a length of 16 inches. They are sexually dimorphic during breeding season, the males have a black collar around their neck, and yellow chest and throat markings. Females develop orange bars along their underside when gravid.

[edit] Behavior

Collared lizards are diurnal and primarily carnivores, feeding on invertebrates and other small prey, even other lizards. They spend most of their time perched on rocks, basking in the sun, but are generally quick to flee if approached.

[edit] Conservation concerns

The reticulate collard lizard is listed as a threatened species in the state of Texas.

[edit] References

• Herps of Texas: Crotaphytus reticulatus
• EMBL Reptile Database