Mexican Beaded Lizard
The Mexican Beaded Lizard (Heloderma horridum) is a species of venomous lizard native to the dry forests and scrublands of Mexico and Guatemala. It is one of the only two venomous lizard species in the world, the other being its close relative, the Gila Monster.
The Mexican Beaded Lizard gets its name from its distinctive black and yellow or black and pink beaded skin. It is a slow-moving and reclusive reptile, spending most of its life in burrows. The venom is not used for hunting but for defense.
The Mexican Beaded Lizard is a near-threatened species, facing threats from habitat loss and illegal collection.
Mexican Beaded Lizard
Classification
Reptilia > Squamata > Helodermatidae > Heloderma > H. horridum
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
2.5 - 3 feet
(0.8 - 0.9 m)
Average Weight
3 - 5 lbs
(1.4 - 2.3 kg)
Average Life Span
20 - 30 years
Gestation Period
28 - 30 days
Did You Know?
The Mexican Beaded Lizard is one of only two venomous lizard species in the world, the other being its close relative, the Gila Monster.
They store fat in their tails, which helps them survive periods when food is scarce.
Mexican Beaded Lizards are largely nocturnal, especially during warmer months, and spend much of their time underground in burrows.
Their venom is primarily used for defense and is delivered through grooves in their teeth, not through fangs like snakes.
The beaded texture of their skin is made up of osteoderms, which are bony deposits under the scales.
Mexican Beaded Lizards can live for over 30 years in captivity.
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