Collared Lizard

Crotaphytus collaris

The Collared Lizard is a well-designed predator. After sunning on a favorite lookout spot, it will jump nimbly from rock to rock, chasing down large insects, spiders, other lizards, and small snakes. It is hard to sneak up on a Collared Lizard; when alarmed, the animal quickly finds an escape burrow.

Look For : A long-tailed lizard with an oversize head and 2 black collars across back of neck. Color varies: may be yellow, greenish, brownish, or bluish with light spots. Runs on its hind legs and looks like a miniature Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur.

Length : 8-14".

Habitat : Limestone ledges, dry rocky hillsides, gullies, canyons.

Range : Arizona through central Texas, north to Colorado, east to southern Illinois.