
Boulder spiny lizard
A species of Spiny lizards Scientific name : Sceloporus pyrocephalus Genus : Spiny lizards
Boulder spiny lizard, A species of Spiny lizards
Scientific name: Sceloporus pyrocephalus
Genus: Spiny lizards
Content
Description General Info


Description

Boulder spiny lizard displays a particularly intriguing example of thermoregulatory behavior, sun basking during the early hours to accumulate heat, subsequently retreating under shades during peak temperatures. This adaptive behavior allows boulder spiny lizard to survive in its primary habitat that include tropical dry forests and shrublands. Additionally, boulder spiny lizard exhibits oviparous reproduction, with females showing remarkable nest selection and egg incubation care.

General Info

Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Boulder spiny lizard's diet mainly consists of small invertebrates, predominantly arthropods. It has a penchant for consuming beetles, spiders, and various types of insects, capturing its prey using a sit-and-wait tactic.
Appearance
Boulder spiny lizard is a moderate-sized lizard, characterized by a robust, flattened body and rough, scaly skin. It exhibits a vibrant orange-red head, which contrasts sharply with its predominantly dark body. Male lizards feature blue patches on their bellies and throats, setting them apart. Despite bearing no external ears, spikes, or wings, its fire-red head and unique coloration make it an easily distinguishable species.
Behavior
Boulder spiny lizard is a solitary species, performing most of its activities alone. This lizard is diurnal, responding to the warm temperature for its activities like hunting and sun-basking. Males of this species are territorial, often resorting to head-bobbing and push ups as a display of dominance and territoriality. It sustains in its natural habitat by understanding environmental cues for predation and tail autotomy.
Population
Stable

Scientific Classification

Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Spiny lizards Species
Boulder spiny lizard