Desert Spiny (Sceloporus magister) Lizard — Image by kenne
These are medium to large lizards with snout-vent lengths ranging from 2¼ to 5¼ inches (63 to 138 mm).
These robust lizards have keeled, pointed scales. Background color is usually subdued gray, tan, or blue
with a striking wide, purple stripe down the back and single yellow scales scattered on the sides (S. magister),
or scattered turquoise scales mixed with tan and brown on the back and sides (S. clarkii). Both species have a
dark collar under or around the neck; males have vivid blue throats and under-bellies. Females develop
orange to red heads during the breeding season. — Source: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
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