The Gila monster (or Heloderma suspectum) is a large species of venomous lizard native to the arid regions of the Southern United States and Northern Mexico. It has orange and black scales arranged in a banded and reticulated pattern, measures 51 to 60cm long, and weighs between 350 and 700g. The Gila monster has a very keen sense of smell that it uses for hunting, and can often be seen scenting the air by flicking its tongue in and out of its mouth. The species is near threatened, often killed by humans out of fear, despite the fact it is too slow moving for it to be a serious threat to people.
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Heloderma suspectum
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Animal Facts
The Gila monster cannot inject venom like a snake. Instead, it administers venom by biting hard and chewing, aiming to put venom-laced saliva in the wound.
In the wild, the Gila monster only eats 5 to 10 times a year, and it spends the winter hibernating.
The Gila monster's venom is not deadly, but its bite is said to be one of the most painful.
A derivative of the Gila monster's venom is used in treating Type-2 diabetes.
Gila monster venom is being researched for potential uses in treating Alzheimer's disease.