Common Collared Lizard

Crotaphytus collaris

Range

Occurs across the south-central and eastern United States and northern Mexico, extending from the central Plains and Southwest into parts of the lower Midwest and Southeast.

Habitat

Dry, open, rocky places with exposed boulders or ledges and sparse vegetation; also found in desert scrub, grassland, shrubland, and open woodland.

Diet

Arthropods, Grasshoppers, Beetles, Spiders, Other lizards, Some plant material

Facts

• Look for the pair of dark bands crossing the neck, along with dark crossbands or spots on the back. Males are often more brightly colored than females.

Research sources

• GBIF Backbone Taxonomy
• ReptTraits — Crotaphytus collaris
• Eastern Collared Lizard — Missouri Department of Conservation
• Crotaphytus collaris (Collared Lizard) — Animal Diversity Web