As the first name mentioned implies, it is a lizard. They
are known by other names, which are all technically incorrect: horned or horny toads,
and horned frogs. They got those monikers because their body is somewhat round
like a toad, and they have a stubby snout. The horned part of the name comes
from the horns on their heads.
In addition to horns, they have spikes that run down
their sides and back. Their colors generally match their environment, which is
typically desert sand. Dim shades of burgundy, gray, orange, tan or other dull
colors may decorate their skin. They usually grow to be 3-5 inches, but in some
regions, they may grow to eight inches.
The Endangered Horned Lizard
Most states have listed them as endangered and/or
protected. They are illegal in most of those states, and even bothering them in
the wild can land someone a hefty fine. Not all species are listed as endangered,
but those that are include the Texas horny toad of that state, and the flat-tailed
horned lizard of Arizona and California, among others. Some states allow
ownership if the animals are bred in captivity, and some allow people with a hunting
license or a commercial trade permit to collect them.
The reason they are endangered has more to do with
collecting them, though. It is due to the expansion of residential areas, which
decreases the lizards' own territory. Additionally, agricultural growth and the
related use of chemicals such as pesticides and weed killers takes its toll on
them. Some authorities say their demise is also due to predators and fire ants,
but that is natural and it likely has little to do with it.
Don't
be disappointed if your state has a ban on ownership of horny toads as exotic
pets: They are interesting to look at, but they do very little but sit and wait
for you to feed them some fire ants. By the way, if you find a way to own one
of these lizards, you will probably have to mail order those ants. They also
won't drink water out of a dish, so you have to take the time to drip it on the
reptile's nose. Your best bet is probably a gecko, which has a lot more
personality.
