| As might
be expected in a warm, desert area, reptiles are common throughout
the region. For the most part, they prefer the rocky slopes and
dry washes where boulders and brush furnish plenty of shelter
and shade. Natural foods are also.more likely to be found in this
type of habitat.
Due to the great heat of
the sun during the.hot summer months, many reptiles, such as
snakes, come out in the late evening and search for food until
the sun's rays drive them to cover again the next day. Most
of the lizards are around during the daylight hours, but seldom
stay out in the sunlight for any length of time. Contrary to
belief, most reptiles are unable to live when subjected to the
direct rays of the sun for a very long period of time. Most
of the snakes and lizards in this region are very harmless,
but there are two types of poisonous reptiles that live here
- the rattlesnake (of which there are 5 kinds), and the Gila
Monster.
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