Common Collared Lizard

Common Collared Lizards are colorful reptiles that are found in the western United States. Their name comes from the black stripe that circles their neck, giving them a collar and (in males) dividing up their body colors.

Only the males of the species boast the brilliant blue and green scales. Females are brown-ish all around. These Lizards grow to just over a foot long, tail included.

One amazing fact about the Common Collared Lizard is that is has the ability to run on just its hind legs! Like the more famous Basilisk Lizard, this Reptile stands up on just its back legs and sprints very quickly with long stride lengths. They use their tails for balance. Common Collared Lizards can only perform such feats for short time periods though-- they still spend most of their time on all fours.

IUCN Status : Least Concern
Location : Western United States
Size : Length up to 14in (36cm)

Classification : Phylum : Chordata -- Class : Reptilia -- Order : Squamata
Family : Crotaphytidae -- Genus : Crotaphytus -- Species : C. collaris

Image : Daniel Schwen

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