STATUSLeast Concern
COMMON NAME (SCIENTIFIC NAME)Sauromalus ater
DIETDesert succulents, flowers, fruits, leaves, and occasionally insects
RANGESouthwestern United States and parts of Northern Mexico
HABITATDeserts, rocky areas, and shrublands
Physical Description
Chuckwallas are typically 15 inches long with half of that body length being their tail. Their color will depend on temperature, geographic location, surroundings, and mood. Males are usually larger and may be more rust colored with black limbs, while females may be more gray-yellow in color.
Predators
Some predators they may encounter include rattlesnakes, coyotes, kestrels, and red-tailed hawks.
Lifespan
Their average lifespan is 25 years, though some have been known to live up to 65 years.
Reproduction
Breeding occurs from April to July with eggs being laid from June to August. Females will lay 5-16 eggs which will hatch in late September.
Fun Facts
Conservation Messaging
In our Reptile and Amphibian (RAD) center you will find many different reptiles and amphibians including venomous and poisonous species of snakes and frogs. Many of these animals fall victim to habitat loss in the wild. Many of the species here are found in South American habitats which are subjected to deforestation, damming of rivers, water pollution, and poor agricultural and management practices.