The Reptiles and Amphibians of Utah

Description: Brown or black base color with seven cream or yellow stripes down the dorsal. The center (vertebral) stripe is wavy and forms a “Y” at the back of the head. There are yellow spots in the dark areas between the dorsal stripes. The spots can be faded or absent toward the head and adjacent to the center stripe. The tail is 2-3 times the length of the body and has a light blue or blue-green tip. The nose is narrow and pointed. Juveniles have a darker, bolder pattern with a bright blue tail and can lack the spots altogether. This species is parthenogenetic. 

Size: A medium-sized slender lizard averaging 8 to 10 inches in total length. 

Range and Habitat: This is a non-native species to Utah. It ranges through the foothills of Davis, Salt Lake, and Utah Counties, along the Jordan River and the shores of Utah Lake. It has adapted well to urbanization and disturbed areas, commonly being encountered near parks and neighborhoods. So far it has been encountered from the valley floors to about 5,500 feet in elevation. 

Similar Species: This species is similar in appearance to the other species of whiptail in Utah. The wavy center dorsal stripe and a “Y” shape at the back of the head are unique to this species. This species does not overlap in range with the Plateau Striped Whiptail.