Opportunistic feeding in Sceloporus horridus from Jalisco, Mexico

Authors

Philip A. Medica, University of California, Los Angeles
Rudolf G. Arndt, Stockton State College, Pomona, New Jersey

Abstract

Based on a sample of 17 adult specimens of Sceloporus horridus taken near Autlan, Jalisco, Mexico in May 1974 just before and just after the first rainfall of the year, we present the first published data on the food habits of this lizard. Important prey item taxa were Homoptera, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Orthoptera, and Isoptera. The absence of Homoptera and Orthoptera, and the concomitant greater relative importance of Isoptera and Hymenoptera in the diet after the rain than before indicates opportunistic feeding by S. horridus. Our data suggest that reproduction in this lizard is probably initiated soon after the first rains in late spring.

Recommended Citation

Medica, Philip A. and Arndt, Rudolf G. (1976) "Opportunistic feeding in Sceloporus horridus from Jalisco, Mexico," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 36: No. 1, Article 9.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol36/iss1/9