Type of Scales: Smooth, large scales

Texas Alligator Lizards are found in central & west Texas and north central Mexico. They are the largest of the Texas native four-legged lizards, with a max total length of 25 inches (including tail). They have a unique bluish tongue.

Their habitat consists of rocky hillsides in a variety of habitat such as scrubs, sparse Pine forests and oak/Ashe juniper forests. This species is a fairly common sight on the Emory Peak trail at Big Bend National Park. In Austin, Texas, Alligator Lizards are often found in the habitat around Barton Springs Greenbelt and in Barton Creek Habitat Preserve.

Breeding season occurs year round in Texas. Several clutches are laid from February to May. Females will stay with the eggs until they hatch. Eggs usually takes around 45-60 days to hatch. Young alligator lizards have a high contrast banded pattern.

Alligator Lizards eat a variety of items; such as insects, small reptiles and small mammals.

Wild Texas Alligator lizards usually have a good temperament. They will puffy themselves up and may gape at their handler when first picked up. Captive specimens are known to tame down relatively fast. Their bite is fairly strong; it will break human skin and draw alittle bit of blood.

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