Granite spiny lizard
| Granite spiny lizard | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Subphylum: | Vertebrata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Lacertilia |
| Family: | Phrynosomatidae |
| Genus: | Sceloporus |
| Species: | S. orcutti |
| Binomial name | |
| Sceloporus orcutti Stejneger,1893[2] | |
The granite spiny lizard (Sceloporus orcutti) is a species of phrynosomatid lizard.[1][2] The epithet, orcutti, honors Charles Russell Orcutt (1864-1929) who collected the type specimen in San Diego County, California.[2][3]
Geographic range
It is endemic to southern California in the United States and Baja California in Mexico.[1][2]
Description
The granite spiny lizard is 7.6-10.8 cm (3.0-42 in) snout-to-vent length. Maximum total length including the tail is 28.9 cm (11.4 inches).[4] Its dorsal scales are strongly keeled and pointed on its body and tail. It has a wide purple mid-dorsal stripe. The males of the species have yellow-green and blue-centered scales on the body; juveniles and females have distinct yellow-tan transverse bands on their body and tail. Additionally, the male has deep-blue ventral patches on its chest and throat and femoral pores.
Behavior
The granite spiny lizard is a colorful species that can be observed perched atop boulders from considerable distance. This species is primarily associated with rocky hillsides and outcrops. They have been known to try to mate with other members of their sex.
References
- This article is based on a description from "A Field Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Coastal Southern California", Robert N. Fisher and Ted J. Case, USGS, http://www.werc.usgs.gov/fieldguide/index.htm.
- 1 2 3 Hollingsworth, B. & Hammerson, G.A. (2007). "Sceloporus orcutti". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2014.3. International Union for Conservation of Nature. Retrieved 2 February 2015.
- 1 2 3 4 Sceloporus orcutti at the Reptarium.cz Reptile Database. Accessed 2 February 2015.
- ↑ Beltz, Ellin. 2006. Scientific and Common Names of the Reptiles and Amphibians of North America - Explained. http://ebeltz.net/herps/biogappx.html
- ↑ Smith, H.M. and E.D. Brodie, Jr. 1982. Reptiles of North America, A Guide to Field Identification. Golden Press. New York. pp. 120-121.