What is a Desert Iguana

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What is a Desert Iguana

Joshua Tree National Park | Flickr

Overview

The desert iguana, also known as the Crested Lizard, (Dipsosaurus dorsalis) is one of the most common lizards of the Sonoran and Mojave deserts of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico.

They also occur on several Gulf of California islands.

Taxonomy

Desert Iguana or Crested Lizard – Dipsosaurus dorsalis

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Size and Body Description

A blunt head and a long tail, the desert iguana is a medium-sized lizard that grows to 24″ including the tail.

They are pale gray-tan to cream in color with a light brown reticulated pattern on their backs and sides.

Down the center of the back is a row of slightly-enlarged, keeled dorsal scales that become slightly larger as you move down the back.

The reticulated pattern gives way to brown spots near the back legs, turning into stripes along the tail.

The tail is usually around 1½ times longer than the body from snout to vent.

Diet

Desert iguanas are primarily herbivorous, eating buds, fruits, insects, and young leaves of many annual and perennial plants.

They are especially attracted to the yellow flowers of the creosote bush.

Habitat and Range

Creosote Bush Scrub, Sand Dunes, Sandy Washes

Southern Nevada, southern California, western Arizona south into Mexico.

Breeding

During the breeding season, the sides become pinkish in both sexes.

Mating takes place in the early spring.

It is believed that only one clutch of eggs is laid each year, with each clutch having 3-8 eggs and the hatchling emerge around September.

Additional Photos and Videos

Tom Benson | Flickr

Wilson44691 / CC0

Resources Used

https://www.inaturalist.org/
Valley of Fire Information Placard

Additional Information:

ADAPTATION FOR SURVIVAL

Comfortable at very high temperatures, up to +115° F (+46°C).

Obtains moisture from food.

Climbs into shrubs to avoid high temperatures of the desert floor; stands stiff-legged to hold body off hot rocks.

COMMENTS

Active during the day; runs rapidly across the hot deserts in the open sun.

One of many meat sources for Indians of the region, and important food for many predators.