
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Heloderma suspectum
North America's only venomous lizard. Beautiful beaded black-orange scales, for experts due to venom.
The Gila monster is a species of venomous lizard native to the Southwestern United States and the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora. It is a heavy, slow-moving reptile, up to 22 in (56 cm) long, and it is the only venomous lizard native to the United States. Its venomous close relatives, the four beaded lizards inhabit Mexico and Guatemala. The Gila monster is sluggish in nature, so it is not generally dangerous and very rarely poses a real threat to humans. Nonetheless, it has a fearsome reputation and is sometimes killed despite the species being protected by state law in Arizona.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Gila Monster lives 20-30 years.
The Gila Monster grows to 35-55cm.
Origin
the Southwestern United States and the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora
Lifespan
20-30 years
Size
35-55cm
Temperature
25〜32℃
Humidity
40〜70%
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Heloderma suspectum Cope, 1869
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Venomous. Designated as a controlled animal (all species in the family Helodermatidae) in Japan.
Sources: CITES Checklist (Heloderma suspectum Appendix II) / IUCN Red List / Japan's Ministry of Environment Designated Animal List (Helodermatidae)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Small animals, Eggs
Dry spacious cage
Hot spot at 28-32°C
Feeding once or twice monthly is sufficient
Venomous, legal restrictions and safety management essential
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The average lifespan of Gila Monster is 20-30 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Gila Monster typically reaches 35-55cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Gila Monster feeds on: Small animals, Eggs. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Gila Monster varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026