Z: Zebra-tailed lizard

One of the fastest lizards in the Mojave Desert, Western zebra-tailed lizards (Callisaurus draconoides rhodostictus) flash in front of your eyes when spooked. These lizards get up to four inches in length and feature a brilliant pattern of white and black on their tails, hence the name “zebra.” Scientists believe this tail pattern tricks predators to attack the tail, which detaches from the lizard allowing for their escape (the tail will regrow). Western zebra-tailed lizards eat mostly insects and are active during the daytime. Look for them in desert flats and washes at Red Rock Canyon.

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