Species profile
Baja California Collared Lizard
Crotaphytus vestigium
At a glance
Baja California Collared Lizard (Crotaphytus vestigium) is an IUCN Least Concern reptile with specific harvest rules tracked in 1 of 66 jurisdictions covered by CatchRules.
Confirmed by 219 research-grade iNaturalist observations, concentrated in California.
Notable details
- Its scientific name 'vestigium' refers to its incomplete, trace-like collar markings.
- It is found in rocky desert scrub of Baja California and extreme southern California.
- Like other collared lizards, it can sprint bipedally on its hind legs to escape threats.
- Males display bright coloration during breeding season to attract mates and deter rivals.
- It feeds on insects, smaller lizards, and occasionally plant material.
Where Baja California Collared Lizard are seen
Background
The Baja California collared lizard or Baja black-collared lizard (Crotaphytus vestigium) is a species of lizard in the subfamily Crotaphytinae. It is found in southern California (United States) and Baja California (Mexico).
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Baja California Collared Lizard article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.