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The Gila monster uses its neurotoxin to kill and eat small mammals, birds, rodents, reptiles and insects.
photo: Tom Gillespie
Characteristics: One of two venomous lizards worldwide, the gila monster posses a neurotoxic venom and strong jaws used for clinging to prey. This shy creature bites only when provoked and human fatalities are extremely rare. The Gila monster is typically 9-14 inches long and can weigh up to three lbs.
Diet: The Gila monster uses its neurotoxin to kill and eat small mammals, birds, rodents, reptiles and insects. If necessary, fat stores in their thick tails allow them to go for several months without a meal.
Reproduction: Gila monsters mate during the summer and females lay a clutch of 1-8 leathery eggs in the fall or winter months. Eggs are buried in the sand to provide protection and warmth.
Environmental Connections: Gila monsters have many unique adaptations for desert survival. They hide under rocks and in burrows during the day, becoming active at dusk and after dark to avoid high daytime temperatures. These amazing lizards can also store moisture on the bumpy skin of their bodies. They have long tongues that they use to beads of water off their backs.
Human encroachment threatens desert ecosystems globally. Water diversion for dams and hydroelectric plants deplete deserts of precious water. Overgrazing, human development and tourism destroy natural soils and vegetation needed to keep this ecosystem in balance.
Protecting the Gila monster means preserving the habitats in which they live. No ecosystem stands alone so it is important that we work to protect ecosystems on a global level.
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N.C. Zoo is a member institution of AZA and an agency of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, William G. Ross Jr. Secretary; Michael F. Easley, Governor. A part of the North Carolina Government portal.
The Zoo is closed Christmas day and during severe weather. Call our information line at: 1-800-488-0444.
