Abstract
Horned lizard defenses function at three levels: detection avoidance, escape and resistance. Reptilian, mammalian and avian predators of horned lizards, herein summarized, vary in their abilities to penetrate horned lizard defenses. One horned lizard, Phrynosoma modestum , the smallest species and the one most lacking in means of resistance, is hypothesized to exhibit two strategies for avoiding detection: (1) background-matching crypticity for distant predators, and (2) a form of object mimicry, e.g. stone mimicry, for close predators. The morphological, behavioral and chromatic features of this stone mimicry complex are detailed in support of the hypothesis.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
