Body length:
3 - 4 1/2 "
Diet: Insects, lizards, and plants
Large, fast, and often brightly colored, the Sonoran collared lizard is one
of the most impressive lizards in Arizona. Its body color ranges from brown
to an almost emerald green, with white spots on the back, bold yellow on the
head, and distinctive black neck bands. Collared lizards are not common, but
are day-active, or diurnal, and can be very conspicuous when present. They occur
throughout Tonto National Monument in rocky areas; look for them on warm spring
mornings on the Lower and Upper Cliff Dwelling trails.
Collared lizards rely on speed to catch and eat insects and other lizards. Like some dinosaurs and a few other lizards, they can run on their hind legs, using their long, powerful tail for balance.
NPS
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Updated
May 8, 2005