Greater short-horned lizard
A species of Horned lizards, Also known as Horned toad, Short-horned lizard Scientific name : Phrynosoma hernandesi Genus : Horned lizards
Greater short-horned lizard, A species of Horned lizards
Also known as:
Horned toad, Short-horned lizard
Scientific name: Phrynosoma hernandesi
Genus: Horned lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
The greater short-horned lizard (Phrynosoma hernandesi), also commonly known as the mountain short-horned lizard, is a species of lizard endemic to western North America. Like other horned lizards, it is often wrongly called a "horned toad" or "horny toad", but it is not a toad at all. It is a reptile, not an amphibian. It is one of seven native species of lizards in Canada.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Greater short-horned lizard predominately consumes ants, adopting an insectivorous diet. It employs a sit-and-wait hunting strategy, predominantly feeding on harvester ants but also diversifying its diet with other types of ants and ground-dwelling invertebrates when necessary.
Appearance
The greater short-horned lizard is a small, flat-bodied reptile, averaging 2.5 to 4 inches in length. Its skin is naturally armored, covered with sharp spikes, and has a sandy colored camouflage, which is darker above and lighter below. The most distinctive feature is its elongated tail. It lacks substantial gender or age-induced differences in appearance, maintaining consistent coloring and size.
Behavior
Greater short-horned lizard exhibit distinctive antipredator behavior, notably by inflating their bodies and displaying their spined scales to deter threats. They are diurnal, foraging for insects during the day. This species is solitary, only interacting during mating. Its unique body structure and coloration provide excellent camouflage with its desert environment.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Horned lizards Species
Greater short-horned lizard 
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