The Texas horned lizard is a small, flat, spiky lizard of the southern Great Plains. It has disappeared from much of its former range, especially in east Texas.
Interesting facts
- It is the state reptile of Texas.
- It is often called a ‘horny toad’, although it is a lizard.
- Harvester ants make up most of its diet.
- The spread of invasive fire ants and pesticides has reduced harvester ants and horned lizard numbers.
- It puffs up its body to look bigger and harder to swallow.
- Texas Christian University’s sports teams are called the Horned Frogs.
Behaviour
Horned lizards are active by day, feeding near ant nests. They rely on camouflage and stay still when threatened.
Breeding and young
Females lay about 14–37 eggs in a burrow in late spring.
Threats and conservation
Invasive fire ants, pesticides, habitat loss and past collection for the pet trade.
Where to see it
- Kenedy and Karnes City, Texas
- West Texas grasslands
- Chaparral Wildlife Management Area, Texas
- Oklahoma prairies
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
