A Guide to the Amphibians
and Reptiles of California

Desert Spiny Lizards

Click on a picture for a larger view

Similar Species:

Fence Lizard, Sagebrush Lizard

Granite Spiny Lizard

Large lizards with large visible scales. Found in desert and semi-arid habitats, usually seen on rocks or trees. Active in the daytime. Two species of Desert Spiny Lizards are found in California, basically one occurs in the Mohave Desert area and Great Basin Desert, and the other occurs in the Sonoran Desert area. Check the range maps to see which one is in your area.

Yellow-backed Spiny Lizard Sceloporus uniformis


Desert Spiny Lizard Sceloporus magister