Western Collared Lizard Information

Western collared lizards are common in the Western United States and were once called mountain boomers. This was because locals mistakenly thought that they made a sound that echoed throughout the mountains. While they don't utter loud sounds that echo through mountain valleys, they still have unique habits such as running on hind legs that make them fascinating to observe.

  1. Apperance

    • Western collared lizards are normally a sandy brown color and have two black bands around their necks, which is how they got their name. The males have a dark blue patch on their throats, while the female throats are creamy-white or sand colored. They vary in length and are normally between 8 and 14 inches. Collared lizards also have large heads, narrow necks and a long tail.

    Habitat

    • Western collared lizards can be found throughout the deserts of the Southwest United States. Collared lizards prefer rocky areas and can be found in desert scrub land, forested areas, desert grasslands and habitats with sagebrush. They prefer areas that have open vegetation. Western collared lizards are often seen sitting on large rocks in the sunlight. The males are highly territorial and will do various head-bobbing and push-up displays to assert its dominance over an area.

    Running

    • These lizards are known for their unusual ability to run on their hind legs. They can run at a 45-degree angle, with their front legs and tail up in the air. Its stride is long, up to three times the length of its body. The tail also keeps the lizard in balance as it runs. Their speed helps them catch prey and escape from predators.

    Eating Habits

    • Western collared lizards mainly eat meat and insects, but they will also eat plant matter. Grasshoppers and other insects make up the majority of their diet, but they will also eat other lizards including their own kind. These lizards use stalking techniques to catch insects. They will eat whatever is abundant at the time, and both young and old lizards have a similar diet.