Chuckwalla Lizard

This video describes some of the unique features, habits and habitats of the chuckwalla lizards found on South Mountain.

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BASIC DETAILS

• Run time: 1:39
• Grades: K, 3, 8
• Direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFqapcE_8DY

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POTENTIAL DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Who or what is it that the male chuckwalla will defend? What can you use to make spotting chuckwallas easier? What do chuckwallas like to sit on? (Pause at 0:35 to discuss)
2. What is a crevice? Why do you think chuckwallas like crevices? (Pause a 0:48 to discuss)
3. What is a defense mechanism? What is one of the chuckwalla’s defense mechanisms? (Pause at 1:04 to discuss)
4. What is unique about the chuckwallas on South Mountain? (Pause at end to discuss)

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POTENTIAL CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS

1. How does the chuckwalla use its body to help it survive? Why does it do this? (K.L1U1.6, K.L1U1.7, 3.L2U1.6)
2. How do you think the South Mountain chuckwallas developed such a unique physical appearance? What might be the purpose? (8.L3U1.9)

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Common chuckwalla species description
• Focus Wild Observation activity

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REVIEWER

Susan Logan, Veterinary Science Instructor, AAEC High School, Phoenix

August 2017