Reptile · GBIF taxon 2451188
Crevice Swift
Sceloporus torquatusAlso known as Crevice Spiny Lizard, Mexican Crevice Lizard, Torquate Spiny Lizard
Crevice swifts are robust, rock-dwelling lizards recognized by the prominent dark collar encircling their neck. Males feature brilliant blue patches on their throat and abdomen, which they display during energetic push-up rituals atop volcanic boulders. Uniquely adapted to cool mountain environments, females give birth to live young rather than laying eggs.
Rock-dwellingReptileDiurnal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Beetles
- Ants
- Spiders
Predators
- Birds of prey
- Snakes
- Feral cats
ThreatsUrban development, agricultural expansion
HabitatsVolcanic rock outcrops, crevices, pine-oak woodlands
Life span5–8 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyPhrynosomatidae
- SpeciesSceloporus torquatus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- May deliver a harmless nip if cornered or handled; observe quietly from a short distance.
Responsible observation
- Basking Spotting: Scan sun-warmed volcanic rocks during mid-morning hours when lizards are actively warming up.
- Quiet Approach: Move slowly and avoid casting sudden shadows, which trigger instant retreats into rock fissures.
- Courtship Display: Watch for males performing rapid push-up gestures to display their vivid blue throats.
Close Relative (c) Juan Cruzado Cortés, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Juan Cruzado Cortés · cc-by-sa
Genus Relative no rights reserved, uploaded by Malo Ramírez · cc0
Close Relative Wikipedia User / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
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