| Baja California leopard lizard | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Sauropsida |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Family: | Crotaphytidae |
| Genus: | Gambelia |
| Species: | G. copei |
| Binomial name | |
| Gambelia copei |
|
The Baja California leopard lizard (Gambelia copei) is a species of lizard. It is between 8 and 14 cm long, and has a smoky grey color and darker grey or black dorsal spots, edged in lighter shade. The dorsal pattern appears mottled or occelated. There are light crossbars on the dorsum, and light grey or white on the venter. It has small granular scales. The large head is distinct from neck, and the lining of mouth and throat are purplish-black. Juvenile lizards are similar to adults, but have a more distinct banding across dorsum. Females develop red-orange blotches on their ventral side during breeding season. Males have femoral pores.
The Baja California leopard lizard is an uncommon species. They are powerful bipedal runners. Adults can inflict a painful bite. They prefer chaparral habitats with an open understory.