Short-tail horned lizard
A species of Horned lizards Scientific name : Phrynosoma braconnieri Genus : Horned lizards
Short-tail horned lizard, A species of Horned lizards
Scientific name: Phrynosoma braconnieri
Genus: Horned lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Dick Culbert , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The short-tailed horned lizard (Phrynosoma braconnieri ) is an uncommon species of horned lizard endemic to Mexico. It has a very distinct, shortened tail, which is sometimes not apparent.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Short-tail horned lizard primarily consumes small invertebrates, chiefly ants. Its diet is highly ant-centric, although it occasionally supplements this with other arthropods such as beetles and spiders.
Appearance
Short-tail horned lizard is a small, spherical lizard with textured, granular skin. It primarily presents in shades of brown and grey, providing exceptional camouflage against rocky or desert terrain. It displays a distinct array of spiny scales along its back, and a short but pointed tail. No significant differences in appearance are observed due to age, gender or subspecies.
Behavior
Short-tail horned lizard exhibits notable behaviors such as cryptic camouflage and mimetic postures, essential for survival in harsh desert environments. This species primarily displays solitary and territorial tendencies, occasionally exhibiting mild aggression when threatened. Short-tail horned lizard's activities primarily encompass foraging during cooler periods of the day, enabling efficient energy utilization.
Population
Stable
Photo By Dick Culbert , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Horned lizards Species
Short-tail horned lizard