They are probably the largest (if not longest) and heaviest-bodied lizard found in Colorado, and can have a quite painful bite, but they have proven to be among the most satisfactory lizards I have ever kept. Mine would run up to the door of their cage whenever I approached and readily took food from my fingers. Desert spiny lizards are generally found in rocky areas and are exceedingly wary, often seeking cover when one approaches within 20 or 30 feet [6 - 9 m]. They also climb trees; in California they are commonly found in Joshua trees, often 10' [3 m] or more from the ground. If they are successfully approached, they show no fear of a noose, but will often bite at it, much to the frustration of the intrepid collector. They are less inclined to bury themselves in sand than eastern fence lizards, but will seek refuge in a rodent burrow or a crevasse in the rocks. A large, tall habitat should be provided for these active lizards, with a coarse sand or fine gravel substrate, and a large pile of rocks to bask on or hide in under. They are good jumpers, and a secure cover should be provided.Here is a very nice website about "cae of dezert cspiny lizards". Good luck
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