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April 24, 2007

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The Desert Spiny Lizard ( Sceloporus magister ) can get a bit larger than some lizards around here. Like this one here at about 8" (including the tail). 
And being this size can also sometimes startle a person if they're not paying attention. Like in this case where two equally-sized males seemed to be struggling for dominance and/or territory. As we walked up on them they ruffled and wrestled through the bushes. Although my immediate photo-op interaction seemed to stifle and put a hold on their shenanigans, and they separated.

Even though it can often appear dull and blend into the background, the male of the species can also display some brilliant and interesting colors when it wants to. Possibly to lure and show off for a mate, boast dominance towards another male, or to try to ward off predators. 

But this crazy lizard also does something else very amusing. When approached, it will also often appear to do push-ups, bobbing up and down. Almost as if it were trying to show you how tough it is. 

Hey, I think that could work for people as well. Instead of getting into a fight or argument or any confrontation, just drop down and start doing push-ups to show the other person how tough you really are. Although they may just think you are a lunatic. But either way, I'm sure they'll back off.

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