Mexican plateau horned lizard
A species of Horned lizards, Also known as Mountain horned lizard Scientific name : Phrynosoma orbiculare Genus : Horned lizards
Mexican plateau horned lizard, A species of Horned lizards
Also known as:
Mountain horned lizard
Scientific name: Phrynosoma orbiculare
Genus: Horned lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Mexican Plateau horned lizard (Phrynosoma orbiculare) is a species of horned lizard. It is also known as the Chihuahua Desert horned lizard. The specific epithet, orbiculare, comes from the Latin adjective orbis, meaning "circular".
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Mexican plateau horned lizard sustains primarily on a diet of ants, using its characteristic tongue to actively catch prey. It also consumes termites, beetles, and small arthropods, including spiders, complementing this insectivorous diet.
Appearance
Mexican plateau horned lizard is a medium-sized lizard, with a rounded, flat body covered in granular scales. Its coloration varies from sandy to dark grey, effectively camouflaging it in desert habitats. Characteristic features include a fringed skirt around the abdomen and a row of spiky scales along the neck and back, contributing to its distinctive toad-like appearance. There are no significant differences in appearance between genders or age groups.
Behavior
Mexican plateau horned lizard is a solitary species, adept at employing a unique defense mechanism. When threatened, it inflates its body, displays its ventral side, and squirts a stream of blood from its eyes. It exhibits an opportunistic foraging strategy, primarily feeding on ants. There is no notable social or migratory behavior specific to mexican plateau horned lizard.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Horned lizards Species
Mexican plateau horned lizard 
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