Friday October 12, 2012
This intimidating looking creature is often referred to as the horny toad. However, it is actually not a toad or amphibian, but is a reptile. The more acceptable common name is the horned lizard. There are 13 species recognized in North America of which four species are found in California. We found this juvenile Blainville’s (coast) horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii) in the Salinas Basin along the Central California Coast.
Like all reptiles, they depend primarily on their environment to control their body temperature. They are typically found in sandy areas with sparse vegetation, making them susceptible to predation. One of the most unique characteristics of the horned lizard is their defense mechanism. When threatened, they can inflate their bodies with air thereby making them larger and harder to swallow. However, they are also capable of spraying blood from the corners of their eyes to repel predators.