Gila spotted whiptail
A species of Whiptail lizards Scientific name : Aspidoscelis flagellicauda Genus : Whiptail lizards
Gila spotted whiptail, A species of Whiptail lizards
Scientific name: Aspidoscelis flagellicauda
Genus: Whiptail lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
The gila spotted whiptail is a species of medium-sized lizard that’s found in Mexico and the Southwestern United States. It can be seen along creeks and rivers, sunbathing on rocks. This alert, fast-moving lizard is active during the day, when it searches for insects on the ground. During the cooler months of the year, it falls into hibernation.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Gila spotted whiptail exhibits a diet primarily comprised of arthropods such as insects and spiders. They also feed on smaller lizards and occasionally plants, making them distinctive, opportunistic feeders.
Appearance
Gila spotted whiptail is a slender, moderate-sized lizard with smooth scales. Their varied coloration includes brown, gray, and tan, with dark crossbands on the body and tail. Males are distinct, bearing longer, whip-like tails and brighter body colours than females. There are no notable changes in appearance with age or among different subspecies.
Behavior
Gila spotted whiptail is a solitary species, most active during daylight hours. Known for its agile running and climbing abilities, its primary mode of survival in arid habitats involves foraging for insects and spiders. Uniquely, gravid females exhibit basking behavior to provide optimum incubation temperatures for their developing offspring. Notably, this species does not display aggressive territorial behavior.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Whiptails Genus
Whiptail lizards Species
Gila spotted whiptail 
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