Sonoran Desert Fringe-toed Lizard

Uma notata

This lizard is the supreme sand-dweller; everything about its body is adapted for life in the dunes. The toe fringes help give the hind feet traction when running on the surface of the sand. The mouth, nostrils, and eyelids are designed to keep sand out when the lizard is buried in sand. When chased, it will dash to a burrow at the base of a bush, or it will simply dive into the sand and disappear.

Look For : An eared lizard with bristlelike fringe on toes and a black spot in an orange stripe on side of belly.

Length : 5-7".

Habitat : Dunes, deserts, and sandy riverbanks.

Range : Southwestern U.S.