Gila Monster Natural History
Size
The Gila Monster can grow up to 60 cm in length, and weigh up to 2.25 kg.
Habitat and Distribution
This lizard is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Age
Lifespan in captivity is up to 30 years. Whereas, in the wild they may live up to 20 years.
Diet
They primarily feed on bird and reptile eggs, and occasionally upon the small birds and mammals themselves. Frogs, lizards, insects and carrion are also consumed.
Groups and Breeding
The mating season runs from May-June, and 2-12 eggs are laid in July-August. They are incubated for 9 months, and hatch around April-May the following year. The hatchlings are about 16 cm (6 in) long, and are able to bite and inject venom upon hatching. They reach sexual maturity in 3-5 years.
Threats
They are often killed by hikers and homeowners. Thus, they are currently listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN.
Interesting Facts
There are two subspecies:
Reticulate Gila Monster (Heloderma suspectum suspectum) [Southern]
Banded Gila Monster (Heloderma suspectum cinctum) [Northern]
This is a species of venomous lizard, one of only two known species of venomous lizard in North America the other is the Mexican Beaded Lizard- both can be found here at WWP.
The Gila Monster During Your Day Out in Kent
Our two Gila Monsters (a male and a female) live together and are on display in the nocturnal part of the Reptile House alongside our Egyptian Fruit Bats, Raccoon Dogs and Clouded Leopards.