Family: Phrynosomatidae, Earless and Horned Lizards view all from this family

Description 2 1/2-6 3/8" (6.4-16.1 cm). Flat-bodied; large crown of spines on head; 2 center spines longest. Large dark spot on sides of neck. 2 rows of pointed scales fringe trunk. Reddish, brown, yellow, or gray; dark blotches on back. Belly scales smooth.

Warning If captured, will inflate itself, hiss, bite, and spray blood from corners of eyes. Its bite is not venomous.

Breeding Clutches of 6-21 eggs are laid May to June, hatch July to September.

Habitat Open areas of sandy soil and low vegetation; frequently found near ant colonies.

Range Most of w. California into Baja California.

Discussion Diurnal. This lizard inflates with air when frightened, making it a difficult prey to swallow. It threatens would-be captors with open mouth and hissing noises. It will bite in defense and, if that does not suffice, will spray an intruder with blood from the corners of its eyes.