GILA MONSTER Meaning and
Definition
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The Gila Monster is a venomous lizard native to the southwestern region of the United States and the northwestern parts of Mexico. It is a large and slow-moving reptile characterized by its distinct, bold patterning of black and orange or yellow bands along its body. It belongs to the Helodermatidae family, and its scientific name is Heloderma suspectum.
With a stout body and a short, thick tail, the Gila Monster can grow up to 2 feet in length, making it one of the largest lizards in North America. They have rough, bead-like scales that are often arranged in a mosaic pattern. Known for its venomous bite, the Gila Monster possesses grooved teeth in its lower jaw, which deliver its potent neurotoxin. However, it is important to note that the Gila Monster is a relatively docile creature and typically avoids confrontation unless provoked.
These reptiles are highly adapted to arid desert environments and can be found in rocky habitats, woodlands, and scrublands. They are primarily terrestrial but are also skilled climbers and burrowers. The Gila Monster is primarily active during the night and spends most of the day hiding in the shade or underground to conserve moisture. Its diet mainly consists of small mammals, birds, eggs, and carrion.
Due to its fascinating appearance, the Gila Monster has also gained popularity in the pet trade. However, it is protected under various laws and regulations in both the United States and Mexico. Conservation efforts are in place to preserve the Gila Monster's natural habitats and ensure its survival in the wild.
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• A large poisonous lizard, Heloderma suspectum and H. horridum, of New Mexico, Arizona, and northern Mexico.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GILA MONSTER
- fila monster
- vila monster
- bila monster
- hila monster
- yila monster
- tila monster
- gula monster
- gjla monster
- gkla monster
- gola monster
- g9la monster
- g8la monster
- gika monster
- gipa monster
- gioa monster
- gilz monster
- gils monster
- gilw monster
- gilq monster
Etymology of GILA MONSTER
The word "Gila" in "Gila Monster" derives from the Gila River in the southwestern United States. The Gila River is located in Arizona and New Mexico, where the Gila Monster is native. The name "Gila" itself originates from the O'odham language spoken by the native Tohono O’odham people. The term "monster" in the name refers to the lizard's formidable appearance and venomous nature.
Similar spelling words for GILA MONSTER
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