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Amphibians and Reptiles in the Southwest
The diversity of herpetofauna in the Southwest, is matched
by few other regions in North America. This region is typified by dry
desert scrublands and grasslands, yet contains oases with lush native
vegetation typical of the tropics, and sky islands reaching altitudes
conducive to plant communities reminiscent of boreal forests. This fantastic
range of altitude and vegetation communities allow for a broad spectrum
of specifically adapted reptiles and amphibians.
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Regal Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma regalis)
on cholla skeleton. |
The foothills of the mountains in
southern Arizona are the perfect place to start for someone looking to observe
the highest number of herpetofauna. This elevation zone, falling under the
upper and lower bajada, is between the lower desertscrub and the higher
deciduous and mixed-conifer vegetation communities. There are of course
keynote species, often targeted by avid herpers, such as the Twin-spotted
(Crotalus pricei) and Ridge-nosed (C. willardi) Rattlesnakes only found
above ~5000ft in the mountains of SE Arizona, or the Desert Iguana (Dipsosaurus
dorsalis), Long-nosed Leopard Lizard (Gambelia wislizenii), and the Sidewinder
(Crotalus cerastes) found only in the hot sandy regions of the Southwest.
Whatever your specific interests might be, from discovering multiple new
species commonly found in our region, to seeking out that elusive life list
species, we can tailor your guided trip accordingly.
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 Desert Iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis) |
Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi) |
Herpetologists regard
Arizona as one of the most desired locations to study and observe their
ectothermic subjects. A few of these include the Gila monster (Heloderma
suspectum), Desert Tortoise (Gopherus Agassizii), Ridge-nosed rattlesnake
(Crotalus willardi), Arizona Black Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis cerberus),
Chuckwalla (Sauromalus obesus) and six species of Horned Lizard (phrynosoma
spp.). These and many other sought after species can be predictably observed
with an experienced Southwest Trekking guide. |
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