Family: Teiidae, Whiptails view all from this family

Description 6 1/2-11" (16.5-27.9 cm). Slender; 7-8 light stripes separated by light-spotted dark brown to green bands most prominent on sides. Wide light stripe, sometimes split in two, down middle of back. Stripes faded or absent in some populations. Back scales small and round; 8 lengthwise rows of large, smooth rectangular belly scales. Male has reddish throat, bright blue belly, usually black spot on chest. Female has pale pink throat, white belly. Tail pink to brownish-orange. Juveniles are brightly striped; tail and hips reddish.

Subspecies Six to eight; 1 in our range: Texas Spotted Whiptail (C. g. gularis).

Breeding Mates April to May. Clutch of 1-5 eggs is laid May or June, a 2nd clutch in late July.

Habitat Semiarid prairie grasslands, open brushy areas; also arid washes and canyons, frequently in vicinity of streams.

Range Se. New Mexico to s. Oklahoma, south through Texas into Mexico.

Discussion Diurnal. This lizard can be seen scratching in sand or dry leaves in search of prey. It will eat insects and spiders, but termites, grasshoppers, and caterpillars are its staple fare. When disturbed, it dashes off only a few feet before pausing to see if it is being pursued.