DESCRIPTION:
The chuckwalla is the 2nd largest lizard in the southwestern U.S. (after the Gila Monster). Body length is generally 5.5" - 8", with a tail of similar length. While basking, chuckwallas spread their body weight (up to 3 lbs.) by pressing against rock, appearing somewhat flatter with a widened girth. Males tend to be slightly larger than females, and are often darker in color as well. Color varies considerably by subspecies (region), but generally includes grey, reddish brown, and/or yellow. Cross banding patterns are found on juveniles and cross bands are often retained into adulthood by females.