The Gila Monsteris one of the most iconic animals of the Sonoran desert. It lives across Arizona’s desert and grassland regions below the Mogollon rim, and is common throughout its range, despite being rarely seen on the surface. The gila monster is often confused with other large, desert lizards, such as the chuckwalla and desert iguana, but can be easily distinguished by it’s high-contrast black and yellow pattern. Although highly venomous, they should not be considered dangerous. Slow-moving and non-aggressive, bites are easily avoided simply by not approaching or attacking one when encountered. They are protected by state law and should always be left alone.
- Dangerously Venomous
- Rarely encountered
- Avoid or relocate if found at a home
- Snake fencing not effective
Often confused with:
Chuckwalla
Western Banded Gecko
Desert Iguana