Seven Reptiles That Would Rather Not Coexist with You

The Gila monster, one of the few venomous lizards in the world, is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. This reptile's striking black and orange patterns make it easily recognizable, yet it remains one of the most secretive creatures in its habitat. Gila monsters spend the majority of their lives underground, emerging only to feed and mate. Human expansion into their desert environments poses significant threats, as habitat destruction and road mortality increase. Efforts to protect the Gila monster focus on habitat conservation and educating the public about the importance of leaving these creatures undisturbed.