Short-horned Lizard {Phrynosoma douglasi) 



Description: The Short-homed Lizard has a broad, somewhat flatted body and relatively short 

 limbs and tail. It is generally tan to gray with dark and light spots and blotches; the belly is 

 white. There is a distinctive line of pointed scales along each side and the head has short, 

 blunt "horns" pointing backward. Adult lizards range from 1.7 - 5.5" in length. 

 Young: Young are live-bom and resemble small adults. 



Similar species: None. 



Habitat and Habits: The Short-homed Lizard is found in a variety of habitats, including dry open 

 forests, grasslands, and sagebmsh; the soil is usually loose or sandy. In firmer soil situations 

 it may use the burrows of other animals. It is active during the day, typically with the peak of 

 activity in mid-late moming. A Short-homed Lizard may squirt blood from its eyes when 

 disturbed. Little is known about reproduction in this part of the range; young are bom in late 

 summer. Ants are the primarv* food of the species. 



Status: Widely distributed (but apparently localized) in eastern Montana. This species may be 

 vulnerable to collecting for the pet trade and agricultural conversion of native habitats. In the 

 vicinit>' of the study area it has been found at Egg Mountain on Nature Conservancy land. It 

 should be watched for in open pine, prairie, or shrub-steppe habitat with loose or sandy soils 

 at lower elevations on the study area; any sightings should be documented. It apparently wais 

 originally much more common. Cope (1879) lists the most commonly encountered reptiles 

 in order of abundance As: Western Rattlesnake. Short-homed Lizard, and Westem Hognose 

 Snake! He goes on to say that these species immediately appeared upon 'leaving the 

 mountains." 



Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S4. 



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