A medium-sized scaly lizard often seen on tree trunks and fence posts across central Texas. Males do push-up displays to defend territory.

Native status: Native to Texas and adjacent Mexico

§ Quick facts

SizeTotal length 14–27 cm
Weight15–50 g
LifespanWild 4–7 years
OrderSquamata
FamilyPhrynosomatidae

§ Encyclopedia

The Texas spiny lizard is a species of phrynosomatid lizard native to the south central United States, in the states of Texas, Arizona and Oklahoma, and northeastern Mexico in the states of Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, and San Luis Potosí. They are quite common throughout their range, where they can be found in trees or on fences.

Source: Wikipedia — Texas spiny lizard Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Stocky lizard with keeled scales; gray-brown body with dark crossbars; males have blue throat.

Similar species. Eastern Fence Lizard (broader range; very similar). Other Sceloporus species.

Voice. N/A (push-ups primary).

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Insects, spiders, small lizards.

Behavior. Common diurnal lizard of Texas. Males do conspicuous push-up displays; develop brilliant blue throat patches in breeding season.

§ Range

Texas and northern Mexico

§ Habitat

Live oak, mesquite, and juniper woodlands

§ Threats

Habitat loss to urban development, outdoor cat predation.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the texas spiny lizard is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Maintain native oaks and mesquite. Keep cats indoors. Don't use lawn pesticides.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Texas Parks and Wildlife
  • Davidson College Department of Biology
  • IUCN Red List 2007