Fauna
Reptile

Greater Short-Horned Lizard

Phrynosoma hernandesi

Also known as Mountain Short-Horned Lizard, Hernández's Short-Horned Lizard, Short-Horned Lizard

Greater short-horned lizards blend seamlessly into rocky soils with their broad, flattened bodies and mottled grey-brown patterning. Unlike most egg-laying reptiles, females give live birth to up to two dozen offspring late in the summer, an adaptation ideal for cold northern elevations. When threatened, they expand their bodies, hiss, and can selectively squirt blood from the corners of their eyes to deter canine predators.

CamouflagedViviparousReptile
Greater Short-Horned Lizard reference1 / 7
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyHarvester Ants, Beetles, Spiders
Predators
  • Hawks
  • Snakes
  • Coyotes
ThreatsHabitat loss, agricultural conversion, pesticide use, and road mortality
HabitatsArid grasslands, sagebrush steppes, open pine forests, and rocky hillsides
Life span3–5 years
Classification
  1. FamilyPhrynosomatidae
  2. SpeciesPhrynosoma hernandesi
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe from a respectful distance.
What to notice
Recognizable by its round, flattened body, short head horns, and greyish mottled skin matching dry soil.
Support conservation
Observe quietly from several meters away and never capture or relocate wild individuals.
Responsible observation
  • Spotting Techniques: Scan open gravel patches slowly, as these lizards freeze completely to blend into their surroundings.
  • Ethical Distance: Remain a few paces back to prevent scaring the lizard into defensive blood squirting.
  • Habitat Protection: Avoid stepping on fragile soil crusts or overhangs where individuals burrow during cold spells.
Related species
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