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Rocky foothills

Gila Monster
Gila Monster
Scientific Name Heloderma suspectum
Weight LB 1.5–5 lb
Average Life Span 20–30 years
Fact A fun fact about the Gila monster is that a protein from its venom, exendin-4, led to the creation of a diabetes drug (Byetta) that helps control blood sugar, showing how this venomous lizard's bite can save lives. They are also one of the few truly venomous lizards in the world, spend most of their lives underground, and store fat in their tails to survive long periods between meals.
Weight KG 0.7–2.3 kg
Country United States
Continent North America
Type Reptiles
Diet Carnivore
Conservation Status Near Threatened
Region North America