Gila monsters (Heloderma suspectum) -- the largest lizards native to North America -- are venomous, slow-moving lizards native to the Mojave, Chihuahuan, and Sonoran deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

Gila monsters have skin colors of black, pink, orange, and yellow . . . laid down in intricate patterns.  Researchers believe these skin patterns may be unique to individual animals, and by creating photographic records, researchers can follow the movement patterns of individual animals over time.

Gila monsters have remained largely unstudied because of their reclusive nature and ability to spend long periods in underground burrows; yet, with our Adopt a Gila Monster revenue, FOSNP is able to fund essential long-term research for this species.

Saguaro National Park is an excellent place to undertake long-term Gila monster research because it is one of the few large areas in Arizona where the species is relatively common and completely protected . . . and as a result, the Park can host the long-term studies that are necessary to truly understand such a long-lived species. 

You can Adopt a Gila Monster for a minimum $35 per adoption.

Just click here, and submit to FOSNP.  Your transaction/donation will be secured through PayPal.