Roundtail horned lizard
A species of Horned lizards Scientific name : Phrynosoma modestum Genus : Horned lizards
Roundtail horned lizard, A species of Horned lizards
Scientific name: Phrynosoma modestum
Genus: Horned lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By aspidoscelis , used under CC0-1.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The roundtail horned lizard (Phrynosoma modestum) is one of the smaller species of horned lizard. Their specific epithet is from the Latin word modestum, meaning modest or calm. They are found in the United States, in western Texas, New Mexico eastern Arizona, southeastern Colorado and eight states in northcentral Mexico where they are referred to as "tapayaxtin".
General Info
Lifespan
3-5 years
Diet
Roundtail horned lizard predominantly feeds on ants, specifically Pogonomyrmex ants. Their diet also includes beetles, spiders, and other arthropods, demonstrating a preference for small, soft-bodied invertebrates.
Appearance
Roundtail horned lizard is a small reptile with a flat, round body covered in rough, sandy-coloured skin, giving it an exquisite camouflage. Notable are its distinctive spiky scales extending like a fringe from its body, and the small horns on its head. Its colour and texture vary depending upon the habitat and region, blending effortlessly into its surroundings. There are no significant variations between genders, age groups, or subspecies.
Behavior
Roundtail horned lizard are solitary, employing camouflage for survival in arid habitats. Known for a unique self-defensive behavior, they inflate their bodies and drive erected spikes into predators when threatened. Holding a territory is not common, instead preferring subtle shifts in foraging grounds.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Horned lizards Species
Roundtail horned lizard 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
