The Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum, / ˈ h iː l ə / HEE-lə) is a species of venomous lizard native to the Southwestern United States and the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora. It is a heavy, slow-moving reptile, up to 56 centimetres (22 in) long, and it is the only venomous lizard native to the United States.

2024年2月22日 · According to a 2018 case study of a 41-year-old man who fully recovered from a Gila monster envenomation, bites can lead to two types of venom effects: local and systemic. The local effect...

In humans, the lizard's venomous bite causes extreme pain, a burning sensation and discomfort that can last for hours. Intrigued by its ability to cause such pain, scientists began to study the Gila monster's saliva. Dr Ronald Jenner, venom evolution expert at the Museum, sheds light on what it takes to create a cure with venom.

Although the bite is rarely life-threatening, symptoms from a Gila monster bite may include swelling, intense burning pain, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, rapid heart rate, and/or low blood pressure.

2024年5月14日 · Indeed, Gila monster attacks on humans are extremely rare. A 2014 analysis found that 105 people contacted a U.S. Poison Control Center about a Gila monster bite from 2000 to 2011. And while most of these cases required a trip …

Gila Monsters rely on various defensive strategies to protect themselves from predators. Their most notable defense mechanism is their venomous bite, which can cause intense pain and swelling in humans. In addition to their venom, Gila Monsters use their intimidating size, coloration, and behavior to deter potential threats.

3 天之前 · The Gila Monster is easily recognizable due to its unique appearance. It is a stout, stocky lizard that can grow up to 22 inches in length, weigh approximately 4 pounds. The lizard’s skin is adorned with bead-like scales that come in mottled patterns of black, pink, orange, or yellow, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its desert surroundings.

Two subspecies (geographical races) are recognized: the Reticulate Gila Monster, Heloderma suspectum suspectum, occurs from Sonora and extreme northwestern Sinaloa into southern Arizona and the southwestern corner of New Mexico.

It has been accused of many things, such as spitting venom, leaping several feet in the air to attack, stinging with its tongue, and killing people with gusts of poisonous breath. We’re glad you’re reading this, to learn the truth about these interesting lizards!

Gila monsters are one of only two venomous lizards in the world. Their venom, produced in glands in the lower jaw and delivered through grooves in the teeth, has evolved as a defense mechanism and is not used to kill prey. After biting a potential predator, they will hang on tight and allow the venom to flow into the bite wound.