Blunt-nosed Leopard Lizard

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Legal Status: Federal Endangered Species / California Endangered Species

Range: Scattered portions of the western San Joaquin Valley, including the Carrizo Plain
Habitat: Barren plains, large washes, alkali flats, and low foothillls; commonly found in non-native grasslands and low shrublands
Size: Body ranges from 3 to 5 inches long; tail 4 to 7 inches long

The blunt-nosed leopard lizard’s striking, leopard-like coloration becomes lighter in the daytime heat when it is most active. To escape from predators, leopard lizards will sometimes abandon their usual four-legged stance and run erect on their hind legs. Small rodent burrows, shrubs, and rocks are used as shelter from predators and temperature extremes.

General Protection Measures:

• Prohibit any activity near blunt-nosed leopard lizard habitat during the breeding season (late April to August).
• Define and respect clear work area limits.
• Do not disturb, capture, handle, or move blunt-nosed leopard lizards.
• Report all dead or injured lizards to the proper authorities immediately.
• Prohibit pets on the job site.
• Do not litter.
• Implement project-specific measures as required by state and federal agencies.
  

BE AWARE
Blunt-nosed leopard lizards and their habitat are protected by both the Federal and California Endangered Species Acts. Consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Game before performing any work in habitat for this protected species. Penalties for harming or harassing these lizards can include up to $100,000 in fines and/or one year in jail.