Gila monster Gila monster The Gila monster ("Heloderma suspectum", ) is a species of venomous lizard native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexican state of Sonora. A heavy, typically slow-moving lizard, up to long, the Gila monster is the only venomous lizard native to the United States and one of only two known species of venomous lizards in North America, the other being its close relative, the Mexican beaded lizard ("H. horridum"). Although the Gila monster is venomous, its sluggish nature means it represents little threat to humans. However, it has acquired a fearsome reputation, and is sometimes killed despite
Lizard buzzard Lizard buzzard The lizard buzzard ("Kaupifalco monogrammicus") or lizard hawk is a bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It is native to Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its name, it may be more closely related to the "Accipiter" hawks than the "Buteo" buzzards. Molecular phylogenetic studies have revealed that the lizard buzzard is not closely related to "Buteo" buzzards but rather to "Accipiter" hawks. This extends to morphological associations, e.g. the lizard buzzard has pointed and fairly short wings. The lizard buzzard is a smallish stocky raptor with a total body length of 35–37 cm and a wingspan of about 79