Details
Heloderma suspectum
The Gila monster is a venomous large lizard of Nearctic deserts. Diurnal and solitary, it uses underground refuges to avoid heat.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It uses desert, dry scrub, rocky slopes, and washes with seasonal moisture. Burrows and rock crevices are essential for resting and temperature control.
Length is about 45-60 cm and weight about 350-2300 g. A heavy body, bead-like scales, orange or pink markings on black, and a thick tail are typical.
It is active by day, though hot periods shift activity toward cooler hours and shelters. Slow-moving individuals search alone for food and nests.
It is carnivorous, eating eggs of birds and reptiles, small mammals, and nestlings. Fat stored in the tail helps it survive lean periods.
Females lay eggs underground. Hatchlings show the same bold pattern and begin solitary life soon after emerging.
Its status is listed as Least Concern. Venom aids defense and feeding, but contact with people is avoidable when animals are left alone.
