Photos by Chris Brown

Scientific name: Sceloporus orcutti

Common name: Granite Spiny Lizard

Size: 3.00-4.25 in (7.6-10.8 cm)

Distinguishing characters: A large, robust species; dorsal scales strongly keeled and pointed on body and tail; wide purple mid-dorsal stripe; yellow-green and blue centered scales on body (males); distinct yellow-tan transverse bands on body and tail (juveniles and females).

Juveniles: Head rusty; dark markings on shoulders; crossbands on body evident.

Dimorphism: As described in distinguishing characters; additionally, male has deep blue ventral patches on chest and throat and femoral pores; female resembles juveniles in color and pattern.

Similar species: Sceloporus occidentalis: Smaller in size, with less pointed dorsal scales; lacks purple mid-dorsal stripe (males); lacks transverse banding (females and juveniles).

Additional notes: A colorful species that can be observed perched atop boulders from considerable distance. This species is primarily associated with rocky hillsides and outcrops.

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