Meet Gila, The Venomous Desert Dweller

The Gila Monster is a venomous lizard native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It is a slow-moving desert dweller, spending most of its time underground. The lizard is characterized by its heavyset body, large tail, and distinctive black and orange-red patterned scales. Gila Monsters hunt small desert animals and their eggs using their keen sense of smell, delivering venom through a relentless bite. Although their venom is toxic, it is not fatal to adult humans. Unfortunately, their numbers are declining due to habitat loss from development, and their underground lifestyle makes it difficult to estimate their population.

What makes the Gila Monster unique among lizards in the United States?

• It is the only venomous lizard.

• It is the fastest lizard.

• It is the largest lizard.

• It is the only lizard that can fly.

Where do Gila Monsters spend most of their time?

• On mountain tops

• Underground

• In water

• In trees

How do Gila Monsters locate their prey?

• By smell

• By touch

• By sound

• By sight

What is a notable feature of the Gila Monster's skin?

• It is covered in fur.

• It has scales with orange and red patterns.

• It changes color with temperature.

• It is smooth and shiny.

What is a major threat to the Gila Monster population?

• Overhunting

• Habitat loss

• Climate change

• Predation by larger animals