Pet's Common Name and/or Species Name
Great Basin Collared Lizard (Crotaphytus bicinctores)

A little about me...
The Collared Lizard is a resident of the arid landscapes of the American West. Its bold black “collar” bands around the neck make it unmistakable, and its vibrant body adds a splash of color to the desert terrain. This lizard is as striking as it is agile, built for speed and acrobatics.

Unlike many lizards that rely on stealth, the Great Basin Collared Lizard is a bold and active hunter. It chases down prey like insects and smaller lizards, often running on its hind legs in bursts of speed that seem almost dinosaur-like. Its powerful jaws and confident demeanor make it a top predator in its ecosystem. They thrive in rocky desert habitats, using their sharp climbing skills to bask on sunny boulders or escape danger when needed.

This one was photographed in late winter, in California's Mojave Desert.

Entrant's Name
Zeev N