Grand Canyon South Rim Plants and Wildlife

A conspicuous, brightly colored lizard often seen basking on sunlit rocks and boulders; males have bold collar bands and vivid greens, blues or oranges during breeding season. They are fast and territorial on exposed rock outcrops throughout the canyon.

Note the bold black collar(s) behind the head, chunky body, and quick jerky runs; males show brighter colors and frequent head‑bobbing displays.

Common Confusions

• Western Whiptail Aspidoscelis tigris Whiptails are slimmer with long tails and continuous spotted striping; collared lizards are stockier with distinct black neck collars and shorter bodies.
• Greater Short‑Horned Lizard Phrynosoma hernandesi Horned lizards are squat and rounded with spines for camouflage; collared lizards are elongate and vividly colored with bold collars.