Uromastyx ornata Heyden, 1827

Common Name and Size

Uromastyx ornata, commonly known as the ornate mastigure, reaches a total length of around 35 centimeters (14 inches). These medium-sized lizards are counted among the most colorful species in their genus.

General Body Coloration

Their body color varies quite a bit, but is generally greenish, marked with a series of yellowish ring-shaped bands.

Tail Structure

They have a notably long, heavily spiny, and slightly flattened tail, which is made up of 20 to 23 segments.

Head Scale Morphology

A few enlarged scales sit on the front edge of the ear opening.

Thigh Spination

Small spines are present on the upper surface of the lizard's thighs.

Sexual Dichromatism

This species is sexually dichromatic, meaning body color differs between males and females.

Male Color Pattern

In males, the main back color is green, blue, or red, with dark brown bands that may be filled with yellow or have rounded yellow spots that often form transverse rows.

Female Color Pattern

Females are less brightly colored, with a light brown back background and pale yellow transverse lines.

Ventral Coloration

The belly is whitish.

Distribution and Habitat

Uromastyx ornata is endemic to the Middle East, where it occurs in rocky habitats in Egypt, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.