Stuff To Blow Your Mind From the Vault: Blood Squirting From the Lizard’s Eye, Part 1
Aug 9, 2025
Dive into the incredible world of horned lizards and their astonishing blood-squirting defense mechanism. Discover their unique biology and survival strategies, including using mucus to hunt ants. Explore the cultural significance these reptiles hold, especially among the Navajo. Uncover the predator-prey dynamics they face, alongside a comparison of their camouflage against keen-eyed hunters. The interplay between science fiction and nature adds an extra layer of intrigue to their story.
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Called 'Grandfathers' By Diné
- Navajo (Diné) people sometimes call horned lizards 'grandfathers'.
- Joe McCormick notes this name reflects respect and perceived wisdom.
Many Species — Several Blood Shooters
- Phrynosoma includes about twenty-one North American species.
- At least eight species can squirt blood from their eyes.
Mucus Rolls Up Dangerous Ants
- Horned lizards coat ants with mucus before swallowing them.
- This compacts and binds ants to prevent stings during digestion.
