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Colorado National MonumentDesert bighorn sheep
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Colorado National Monument
Reptiles

Go to Photo Gallery to see more reptile snapshots.

 

(NPS Photo)

Collared Lizard

Reptiles are among the most conspicuous animals found in the monument; are seen from early March through late October; are most active in May and June. According to the latest survey conducted, nine species of lizards were identified as monument residents.

Lizards are most active on warm, sunny days and temperate evenings, and are commonly seen sunbathing on rock exposures throughout the park. In colder temperatures they hibernate, relying on food stored as fat in their tails for nutrition.

 
collared lizard
Collared lizard
 
Nine species of snakes have been identified in the monument but because they are most active at night, they are rarely seen. The midget-faded rattlesnake, a subspecies of the western rattlesnake, is the only poisonous snake found in the monument. This snake, like all other snakes found here, is not aggressive - rather it will avoid human contact.
 
midget-faded rattlesnake
Midget-faded rattlesnake
Desert bighorn sheep  

Did You Know?
Desert bighorn sheep are considered a separate subspecies from their rocky mountain bighorn cousins. After many generations in a land of little rain, desert bighorns have adapted a special talent for lasting several days without water.
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Last Updated: September 08, 2009 at 14:32 EST