Texas Spiny Lizard Shocked Wildlife Experts—Why This Reptile Is Taking Over Texas!

Sun, 03 May 2026 23:02:36 +0000

Texas Spiny Lizard Shocks Wildlife Experts—Why This Reptile Is Taking Over Texas In recent years, Texas has witnessed a surprising rise in populations of the Texas Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus olivaceus), leaving wildlife experts both fascinated and alarmed. Once considered a regional species, this rugged, sun-loving reptile is now sogen to be spreading dramatically across the Lone Star State—reshaping local ecosystems in ways few anticipated. ### The Spiny Surprise: Texas Spiny Lizard Now Widespread Native to the southwestern U.S. and northern Mexico, the Texas Spiny Lizard thrives in arid, rocky habitats—but its sudden expansion into new territories has caught scientists off guard. From the deserts of West Texas to suburban fringes in urban centers like San Antonio and Austin, these lizards are adapting surprisingly well to changing environments.