The chuckwalla (Sauromalus ater), or ‘chuck,’ is one of the larger lizards in Southern Nevada. They can grow up to nine inches long and appear to be fat. Don’t be deceived though! Chuckwallas have a good amount of loose skin on the sides of their bodies which allows them to expand their body size when threatened.  These lizards will slip into a rock crevice and inflate themselves, making it difficult for predators to wedge them out.  Chucks are known for their variety of coloration including tan, brown, and black.  Juveniles have strong banding on their tails.  Within Red Rock Canyon you can occasionally find them within Calico Basin, the Calico Hills, and Blue Diamond Hill lounging on rocky outcrops or hidden in rock crevices.

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