Species Detail
Texas Horned Lizard
Horned & Spiny Lizards

Texas Horned Lizard

Phrynosoma cornutum

Habitat

Arid grasslands and desert scrub

Range

South Central United States, Northern Mexico

Adult Size

3-5 in (7.5-12.5 cm)

Diet

Primarily ants, occasional insects

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Conservation status:Least Concern

About this species

A spiny desert lizard that can squirt blood from its eyes as a defense. Specialized ant-eater with a flat, round body.

Enrichment & behavioral stimulation

Texas Horned Lizard is ground-dwelling โ€” enrichment centers on basking variety, digging, and foraging puzzles.

  • Use stacked rocks and branches to create varied basking heights and a broad thermal gradient.
  • Add sturdy low climbing structure appropriate to the species.
  • Scatter insects and offer greens in different spots and times to extend feeding activity.
  • Use rock bowls or wobble feeders to slow eager feeders and add problem-solving.
  • Provide a dig area of safe substrate to satisfy burrowing instincts.
  • Offer varied UV and heat zones so the lizard can self-regulate exposure.

Housing & Social Behavior

Solitary

Specialized diet and high stress levels make these unsuitable for cohabitation.

Housing guidance is general and based on species-typical behavior; always verify against current husbandry references and observe individual temperament.