About Gambelia copeii (Yarrow, 1882)
Gambelia copeii measures 8 to 14 cm (3.1 to 5.5 inches) in snout-to-vent length (SVL). Its base body color is smoky gray, with darker gray or black spots along its back that are outlined by a lighter shade. The dorsal pattern is either mottled or ocellated, and light crossbars are present on the back. The underside of the body is light gray or white. This species has small granular scales, and a large head that is clearly distinct from the neck. The lining of its mouth and throat is purplish-black. Juvenile Gambelia copeii resemble adults, but have more prominent banding across the back. During the breeding season, females develop red-orange blotches on their ventral side. Males have femoral pores.
