Species Reptiles & AmphibiansDesert Iguana

Desert Iguana

Dipsosaurus dorsalis

CommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Desert Iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis)

The Desert Iguana is one of the most heat-tolerant lizards in North America, active at temperatures that drive other species underground. It is closely associated with creosote bush, a major food source.

Habitat
Desert flatlands with creosote bush in the Mojave and Sonoran deserts
Diet
Creosote bush flowers and leaves, other desert plants, and occasionally insects
How common
Common

Best time to see a Desert Iguana

The best time to see a Desert Iguana is March–May, when about 71% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 6,695 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Desert Iguana sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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