Sauromalus ater
This is the largest non-venomous lizard (only the venomous Gila monster is larger). It averages about thirteen to fourteen inches in length, with about ½ half of that length made up of its tail. The Chuckwalla is heavy bodied, somewhat flattened in appearance, and it has loose folds of skin on its neck and along its lower sides. Most are dark in color, tending toward black on the head and shoulders, with some tan to reddish color toward the tail. The tail itself, which has a blunt tip, is often a light gray or tan color. The newly hatched young have a tail that has conspicuous bands of orange or yellow alternating with black. Like most of our local lizards, the Chuckwalla is strictly diurnal. From five to sixteen eggs are laid in a single clutch each summer. Habitat: A rock-dweller, the Chuckwalla is found throughout the recreation area at all elevations where there are rock piles or outcrops. It is most often seen basking atop a rock perch.
Diet: It is primarily herbivorous and eats a wide variety of plants including creosote bush. Adaptations: In order to escape predators the Chuckwalla scurries into a rock crevice and gulps air in order to enlarge its body, wedging itself in place. A nasal salt secreting gland also helps this lizard conserve water.
|
