- SCIENTIFIC NAME
- Uma scoparia
- CLASSIFICATION
- Reptile
- LIFE SPAN
- 5-10 Years
- STATE CONSERVATION STATUS
-
- Priority Species
- State Protected
- FEDERAL CONSERVATION STATUS
- Near Threatened
- GAME STATUS
- Non-Game
- GAME TYPE
- None
- Washoe
- Humboldt
- Pershing
- Churchill
- Mineral
- Lyon
- Douglas
- Carson City
- Storey
- Elko
- Lander
- Eureka
- White Pine
- Esmeralda
- Nye
- Lincoln
- Clark
Habitat & Range
The Mojave Fringe-toed Lizard has a limited range in Nevada. They are uniquely adapted for living in sandy desert environments and are only found in places with sandy shifting substrate.
- Mojave desert
- Sand Dunes
Threats
- Habitat Loss
- Human Development
The Mojave Fringe-toed Lizard is a diurnal species, meaning it is active during the day. As evening approaches, it burrows beneath the sand, often near the base of bushes and shrubs, to escape the desert’s dropping temperatures. Known for its remarkable speed, this lizard can evade predators with quick bursts of movement, and if threatened, it can vanish almost instantly by burrowing into the sand.
During the cooler months, the lizard enters a dormant period starting in late October and re-emerges in March when food becomes plentiful again. While it primarily feeds on insects, it will also consume plant material and may occasionally prey on juvenile lizards.
One of its most fascinating adaptations is its fringed toes, which help it move effortlessly across loose sand. Its upturned snout is another key feature, perfectly designed for life in its sandy desert habitat.
Fun Facts
OTHER Species
