About Uromastyx ornata Heyden, 1827
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. Their body color varies quite a bit, but is generally greenish, marked with a series of yellowish ring-shaped bands. They have a notably long, heavily spiny, and slightly flattened tail, which is made up of 20 to 23 segments. A few enlarged scales sit on the front edge of the ear opening. Small spines are present on the upper surface of the lizard's thighs. This species is sexually dichromatic, meaning body color differs between males and females. 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. Females are less brightly colored, with a light brown back background and pale yellow transverse lines. The belly is whitish. Uromastyx ornata is endemic to the Middle East, where it occurs in rocky habitats in Egypt, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.
