While humans aren’t on the menu for the Gila monster, it’s wise to keep a safe distance from North America’s largest lizard.
In Colorado, a man passed away from a Gila monster bite. The 34-year-old had two of these lizards at home, and unfortunately, one of them proved to be deadly. He died four days after the bite, possibly because he had the poisonous lizard illegally in his home.
The Case of the Gila Monster
The Gila monster’s scientific name is Heloderma suspectum. It’s found in the southwestern United States and gets its name from the Gila River. It’s one of the largest lizards in the country, growing to about 56 cm long.
These lizards are known for their venom, but their bites rarely kill humans. The last recorded case before the recent one in Colorado was back in 1930, almost a century ago.
Usually, their bites cause local swelling and bleeding, but in this instance, an allergic reaction proved fatal to the victim. The bite came from a young male lizard about 30 cm long. Despite being taken to the hospital, the victim passed away after four days.
The reptiles are protected and will be moved to a wildlife rehabilitation center in another state. However, the lizard responsible for the man’s death will be taken to a laboratory first to extract its venom for study.
A poisonous lizard
The Gila monster rightfully earns its place among the world’s most venomous animals. This large lizard is mainly found in North America, and its name comes from the Gila River. It’s mostly active at night, hunting among rocks.
It preys on small mammals and lizards, using its strong jaws to squeeze and inject lethal venom. Although it’s responsible for only two human deaths in the last century, scientists have started studying it. Its venom contains a valuable protein used to develop a drug for treating type 2 diabetes.
What does the Gila monster eat
It’s reassuring to know that humans aren’t on the Gila monster’s menu. However, if you’re bitten, even out of fear, it’s crucial to seek medical help to prevent the risk of anaphylactic shock.
The Gila monster primarily eats small vertebrates but also consumes reptiles and bird eggs. It uses its strong jaws to squeeze its prey and inject venom, which quickly immobilizes smaller animals.
Distinguishing the Gila monster from a common lizard is quite easy due to some obvious differences. This creature can grow to over 50 cm long and weigh between 400 and 700 grams. It has a sturdy, bulky body with strong legs and claws.
Its distinctive features include irregular black and pink spots on its body, with vivid colors serving as a warning sign of its poisonous nature to potential prey. Covered in scales, it has a thick tail with black bands and a muzzle of the same color. The head is broad and slightly flattened, with backward-curved teeth, including venomous ones located on the lower jaw.
Despite its robust physique, the Gila monster moves rather slowly but possesses great endurance. It’s also adept at climbing.
Jason Walker
Journalist – Serenewings.com
