What is a Collared Lizard?

The collared lizard is a species in the iguana family. They are relatively large, growing to be about a foot long (30 centimeters), and they're known for their ability to run on their back legs. The animals are native to North America and are found in the desert habitats of the western part of the country. Collared lizards are generally green in color, with mottles of different hues on their bodies, and they are named for the black marks that encircle their necks. These animals are often kept in captivity as pets.

In the wild, the collared lizard lives in desert environments with a lot of rocks and other areas in which to hide. The animals will use shade and sunlight to generally regulate their temperature, so they would come out and sit in the sun if they felt cold, and then go under the rock for shade if their temperature was getting too hot. They’ve been made the official state lizard in Oklahoma, and they’re also relatively common in places like Arizona and Nevada.

These animals are generally predatory, and they mostly feed on different kinds of insects. When they get a chance, they will feed on larger prey. For example, they occasionally kill rodents, and they’ve been known to eat various smaller lizard species when the opportunity arises. They generally hunt using ambush tactics. Collared lizards have the capacity to remain very still for long stretches, and when a suitable prey animal approaches unwittingly, they can quickly spring into action.

When people keep a collared lizard as a pet, they will usually need to design a particularly large environment for it. The lizards are larger than many other lizard species kept as pets, and they need a bit more room than most. A common concern when keeping lizards in captivity is making sure there is enough temperature variation in the environment, and this is generally important for the collared lizard as well. There are many tactics used to establish this kind of temperature variation inside an artificial enclosure, including the use of heat lamps and stones that let the lizard get shade. In captivity, people often feed the lizards things like mice and crickets.

The female collared lizard changes color slightly during breeding season and takes on a reddish tinge. She generally produces about 12 eggs during each breeding cycle. The lizards don’t care for the eggs or the young that hatch in any way other than hiding them in a hole or some other safe location.

A collared lizard, also known as the common collared lizard or Crotaphytus collaris, is a North American reptile notable for its bright colors and distinctive black bands or "collars" around its neck. These lizards are commonly found in arid regions of the southwestern United States, thriving in rocky outcrops and desert environments.

The collared lizard gets its name from the two prominent black bands around its neck that resemble a collar. These bands are a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other lizard species and are more pronounced in males, especially during the breeding season when their colors become more vibrant to attract females.

Collared lizards are carnivorous and have a varied diet that includes insects, spiders, smaller lizards, and occasionally small mammals and birds. Their hunting strategy involves waiting patiently for prey before launching a swift attack. They have powerful jaws and sharp teeth to subdue their meals.

Collared lizards are known for their agility and speed, capable of running on their hind legs to escape predators or chase prey, reaching speeds of up to 16 miles per hour. They are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and they enjoy basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature.

Collared lizards are not currently listed as endangered. They are considered to be of "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), indicating a stable population. However, habitat destruction and climate change could pose future threats to their survival.

Collared lizards can be kept as pets, but they require specific care to thrive in captivity. They need a large terrarium with plenty of space to run and climb, as well as a controlled environment that mimics their natural habitat, including appropriate heating, lighting, and humidity. Prospective owners should research their needs thoroughly and be prepared for a commitment to their care.