No. 014 · lizard · Risk: Moderate
Gila Monster
Heloderma suspectum
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In season · SeptemberSouthwest
- Field tell
- Thick-bodied, black-and-orange beaded skin; slow-moving and rarely bites unless handled.
- Why it matters
- One of the few venomous lizards in the world; bite is painful but rarely life-threatening.
- Season
- Active March through November; spends most of its life underground or in burrows.
SNAKEBITE
If someone is bitten
- Move a safe distance from the snake — don't try to identify or catch it.
- Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
- Keep the person calm and still; keep the bite at or below heart level.
- Remove rings, watches, and tight clothing near the bite before swelling starts.
- Do not cut the wound, apply ice, use a tourniquet, or try to suck out venom.
Not medical advice. Call 911 or Poison Control 1-800-222-1222.