Coast Horned Lizard
“Horny Toad” Coast Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum)
Locals in the Punta Banda area have recently enjoyed the opening of a new restaurant, “Horny Toad.” But what exactly is a horny toad?
"Horny toad" is a common nickname for horned lizards, which are not actually toads but reptiles. These lizards belong to the genus Phrynosoma and are known for their distinctive, toad-like appearance with a broad, flattened body and spiny protrusions on their heads and bodies. The term "horny" refers to these spines or "horns."
Horned lizards are fascinating creatures with unique adaptations, such as their ability to squirt blood from their eyes as a defense mechanism against predators. They primarily feed on ants and are found in arid and semi-arid regions of North and Central America.
Coast Horned Lizard Habitat and Range
Our local horned lizard of the Punta Banda area is Blainville's Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii), also known as the Coast Horned Lizard. Historically, Blainville's Horned Lizard inhabited a wide range of open, sandy habitats, from coastal sand dunes to mixed forests and chaparral scrub. Today, their range has become fragmented due to urban development and agricultural expansion. They are primarily found in the coastal regions from the Bay Area south into northern Baja California
Diet and Behavior
These lizards are ecological specialists, primarily feeding on native ants, especially harvester ants. They are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and they retreat underground during periods of extreme heat or cold
Conservation Status
Blainville's Horned Lizard is currently listed as a California Species of Special Concern due to significant population declines across its range. The primary threats to this species include habitat destruction from human development, agriculture, and the spread of non-native Argentine ants, which displace the native ant species that the lizards rely on for food.
Efforts to conserve Blainville's Horned Lizard focus on habitat preservation and restoration. Protecting and managing the remaining suitable habitats is crucial for the survival of this species. Additionally, research on genetic connectivity among isolated populations is essential to inform conservation strategies and ensure the long-term viability of these lizards.
Coast Horned Lizard is a remarkable species that plays a vital role in its ecosystem. Conservation efforts are essential to protect this unique reptile and its habitat. By raising awareness and supporting conservation initiatives, we can help ensure that future generations will continue to marvel at the sight of these incredible lizards in the wild.
