Desert horned lizard
A species of Horned lizards, Also known as Northern desert horned lizard Scientific name : Phrynosoma platyrhinos Genus : Horned lizards
Desert horned lizard, A species of Horned lizards
Also known as:
Northern desert horned lizard
Scientific name: Phrynosoma platyrhinos
Genus: Horned lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By BLM Nevada , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The desert horned lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos) is a species of phrynosomatid lizard native to western North America. They are often referred to as "horny toads", although they are not toads, but lizards.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Desert horned lizard's diet mainly consists of ants, making them a myrmecophagous species. They selectively consume specific ant species, particularly Pogonomyrmex harvester ants. This selective dietary habit is integral to their adaptation to arid environments.
Appearance
Desert horned lizard is a small reptile with an oval, flattened body shape and rough, spiky skin. It is primarily brownish-tan in color, camouflaged to blend in with sand and rocks. Notably, it possesses several rows of short, crown-like horns on its back, helping to differentiate it from other lizard species. There are no striking differences in size and coloration based on age or gender.
Behavior
Desert horned lizard is a solitary and diurnal reptile, most active during the day. It partakes in a unique defensive behavior of 'blood squirting' when threatened. Foraging primarily by consuming small invertebrates, it relies on excellent camouflage to avoid predators. Desert horned lizard demonstrates territoriality, particularly during mating season.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Horned lizards Species
Desert horned lizard 
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