Beaded Lizard
Our reptile house is currently closed due to Covid restrictions.
Name |
Mexican Beaded Lizard |
Scientific Name |
Heloderma horridum |
Characteristics |
The Beaded lizard is dark brown or black in colour and has bright yellow spots. They are so-called due to the bumpy texture of their skin. Each of the bumps (or beads) on their skin contains a tiny piece of bone, meaning that these lizards are incredibly hardy. Beaded lizards are one of only 2 venomous lizards in the world. They deliver their venom to their prey through their sharp, grooved teeth. This venom will kill small animals and can be harmful, though not deadly, to humans. In the wild, beaded lizards have a solitary nature and spend much of their time hidden underground in burrows. |
Diet |
In the wild, beaded lizards mostly eat mice and reptile eggs. |
Size Fact |
Male Beaded lizards can grow up to 90cm in length. |
Food Fact |
Beaded lizards can metabolise the fat in their tails, if food is in short supply. |
Fun Fact |
Its Latin name ‘Heloderma horridum’ can be directly translated as ‘horrible studded skin’! |
IUCN Red list |
The beaded lizard is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN red list. |
Where do I live? |
Beaded lizards are native to Mexico. |