The horned lizard is a small reptile that inhabits arid regions of North and Central America. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with a wedge-shaped head and a body covered in sharp scales. Also He is famous for his ability to draw blood from his eyes.which allows him to quickly scare away his predators.
Regarding its main physical characteristics, the horned lizard stands out for measuring between 7 and 14 centimeters in length. Its head is large and triangular, with two “horns” that protrude from the top of the head. These horns are actually modified scales used to defend against predators.
The horned lizard has a magnificent “crown” of horns adorning its head and numerous spines that criss-cross its back.
the lizard too has a long, thin tail that can break off if attacked by a predator. This ability is known as caudal autotomy and allows him to escape an imminent attack, without major complications as he can regenerate later.
Bloodshed reptile: habitat, ability to feed and reproduce
The reptile that draws blood from its eyes is found from southern Canada to Guatemala. Lives in a variety of environments, from deserts to forests and grasslands. It prefers arid, rocky environments, where it camouflages well with its scaly skin.
It is considered an opportunistic predator because it feeds on a variety of insects, including ants, beetles, flies and caterpillars. It is also known to eat small lizards and rodents. Despite its small size, the lizard has a powerful bite that allows it to catch and kill its prey.
The breeding season varies by species and geographical location. In general, mating takes place in spring and summer, and females lay 2 to 24 eggs on the ground. The eggs hatch after 40-60 days and the young hatch completely independent.
Defense mechanisms
One of the most interesting features of the horned lizard is its defense mechanisms, among which stands out the one that “spits blood” from its eyes when it considers itself in danger. This ability is due to the presence of glands of salt in the eyes of the reptile, which produce a thick red substance.
The first step is to constrict the veins to stop blood flow to the heart. The next step is to apply pressure to the sinuses to push the blood out. He then shoots a stream of blood that can reach more than a meter in distance.
So when you sense the presence of a threat, squeeze the eyes and the substance is excreted through small ducts from their glands. This allows them to deter predators and give them time to escape.
By spitting blood from its eyes, the horned lizard can confuse coyotes, snakes, crows and other predators. Credit: Animal Planet.
This substance released by the reptile can be toxic to some animals. as with dogs, wolves and coyotes. It can also have an irritating effect on human skin, so it is important to avoid contact with the liquid.
The noxious chemical substance it spits at its enemies is the formic acid. It is present in your blood through your diet, especially poisonous harvester antstheir main source of food.
But spitting blood is not the only means of defense used by the horned lizard. Also camouflaged freeze to stay static for a long time, they are part of their defensive lines to face their potential enemies. No wonder some researchers aptly call it “the steel-nerved reptile.”
Added to this, the horned lizard has another interesting feature used to defend itself, it is able to inflate its body up to twice its size, like a prickly balloon and thus scare away its predators. Let’s not forget that looking bigger is always a good way to intimidate other animals in the wild.
environmental conservation
The horned lizard is currently in danger of extinction. Its natural habitat is threatened for human development, the eradication of their main food source and the illegal animal trade. Ecosystem degradation can affect the survival of the species and drastically reduce its numbers.
The destruction of their natural habitat and efforts to eradicate ants, their staple food, added to the illegal trade in species have contributed to the decline of the horned lizard population.
Hence the importance for the environmental authorities to take the measures to protect lizard habitats and ensure its long-term preservation. This may include the protection of natural areas and the implementation of sustainable agricultural and development practices.
You might also be interested in: They reveal the origin and the secrets of the evolution of one of the strangest mammals in the world.
In short, the lizard is a fascinating reptile that has many interesting characteristics. His distinctive appearance and ability to squirt blood from his eyes, made it a legend in some culturesbut its real importance lies in its role in the ecosystem and in the conservation of its natural environment.
Although his appearance may seem intimidating, is an important component of biodiversity and deserves our respect and protection. With concerted effort, we can ensure that this amazing animal remains a part of our natural world for years to come.
References: Very interesting / National Geographic.
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