Tiger Whiptail

Cnemidophorus tigris

This whiptail is one of the most frequently encountered lizards in the drier parts of the west, but it is also one of the hardest to catch. Whiptail lizards have great eyesight and incredible speed so they can usually sprint out of reach before you are close enough to grab them. The best chance of capturing a whiptail arises when you find a male courting a female. In this situation, the lizards are so preoccupied that they don't seem to notice your presence.

Look For : A lizard with a network of bars, spots, and faded stripes on back. Scattered black spots on throat and chest.

Length : 8-12".

Habitat : Open deserts with shrubs.

Range : Eastern Oregon and southern Idaho to Baja California and western Texas.