Sonoran horned lizard
A species of Horned lizards Scientific name : Phrynosoma goodei Genus : Horned lizards
Sonoran horned lizard, A species of Horned lizards
Scientific name: Phrynosoma goodei
Genus: Horned lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Sonoran horned lizard is a compelling study in survival adaptability, boasting a unique freeze behavior strategy against predators, thus reducing its detection. Interestingly, the species also consumes a high quantity of ants, exhibiting a specialized feeding method that plays a significant role in the ant population control in its ecosystem.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Sonoran horned lizard sustains mainly on a diet of ants, specifically harvester ants. The animal further incorporates other small arthropods, including beetles and spiders, diversifying its feeding habits.
Appearance
Sonoran horned lizard is a small, spine-covered reptile with a flattened, round body and short, stout legs. It has a pale, sandy or grey-brown coloration which aids in camouflage. It features a crown of enlarged spines on the back of its neck. Additionally, sonoran horned lizard possesses an elongated, pointed tail covered in sharp spines, adding to its distinct shape. Males and females exhibit slight differences in size, with males being slightly larger.
Behavior
Sonoran horned lizard are diurnal, spending most of their day basking for heat and foraging for ants, beetles, and spiders. This species is solitary except during mating season. Notably, when threatened, they display a unique form of defensive behavior where they inflate their bodies and erect their spines, appearing larger and intimidating to predators. They do not engage in active territory marking or defense.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Horned lizards Species
Sonoran horned lizard 
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