Beaded lizard
Heloderma horridum
The two best known venomous lizards are the gila monster and the beaded lizard. The venom glands are found in the reptile's lower jaw. The lizard chews its prey and the venom enters the prey along grooves in the lizard’s teeth.
The venom can be fatal to small mammals but rarely in humans. However, a painful swelling is common along with sweating and a rapid fall in blood pressure. The venom has been found to contain several enzymes useful for manufacturing drugs in the treatment of diabetes, and scientists are continuing to look at whether the venom can be used in the treatment of other diseases. The beaded lizard's body length is 80 centimetres and can weigh up to eight kilogrammes.
You can find our beaded lizards in the zoo’s Reptile House.
IUCN Status
The IUCN status of the beaded lizard is least concern.
For more info on classifications visit www.iucnredlist.org (link opens in new window).
Animal class
Reptile
Conservation status
Beaded lizards are of least concern however their population is threated by habitat destruction and human persecution because of their venom.
Habitat
Forest – found from western Mexico to south east Guatemala.
Population
Beaded lizard population is currently in decline.
Diet
Carnivore - eats mammals, birds, lizards, frogs, insects and eggs.