Subject: Eastern Collared Lizard, Crotaphytus collaris

Location: Dripping Spring, Dona Ana County, New Mexico

Stock Number: 06-24876

Comment: The first word of the common name is misleading, since this species is never found east of the Mississippi River, and ranges as far west as the western edge of Arizona. Still, it is a more easterly species than several other collared lizards.

Eastern Collared Lizards often run suddenly at their prey, with front legs off the ground and tail elevated. On the other hand, they can be relatively sluggish before their morning bask in the sun.

They prefer to live in warm areas where there are suitable boulders for basking. The boulders also serve as lookouts where the lizards can keep an eye out for predators and prey.

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