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Chuckwalla Lizard Information

The Cahuilla word čaxwal is the origin of the name "chuckwalla". Chuckwallas are desert lizards that live in rocky areas and eat leaves, flowers, and fruit. 

Click the links below for links to learn more about Chuckwalla Lizards.
 

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Chuckwalla Lizards are considered an Iguana, one of over 130 types in the world.  

The Common Chuckwalla (Sauromalus ater) is found throughout the desert habitats of the southwestern United States and northeastern Mexico. This lizard can measure up to 8.5 inches in length, not including the length of its snout and tail. It is not harmful to humans as it is non-venomous; it was a common food source for local Native Americans. The next time you visit the desert be sure to keep your eyes out for this little critter sunning itself on the desert rocks.

Did you know? When scared or threatened the Common Chuckwalla will run into rock crevices and “puff up” its body with air, lodging itself between the rocks.

For more about the Common Chuckwalla, visit the San Diego Natural History Museum’s Amphibian and Reptile Atlas of Peninsular California.

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