ABSTRACT
Only 2 of the approximately 3000 species of lizards are venomous. Gila monsters and beaded lizards have a similar heavy body and tail and adults weigh from 1 to 2 kg with a total length of 250 to 800 mm. Gila monster and beaded lizard diets consist primarily of the helpless infants of small mammals such as rats, mice, and rabbits, and equally helpless small birds. The eggs of birds and reptiles are also consumed. Beaded lizards occupy a similar habitat on the western coast of Mexico from southern Sonora to Chiapas and on into northern Guatemala. Veterinarians may receive emergency calls from clients in remote locations, soliciting recommendations for administration of first aid. If the bite has been witnessed, the first problem may be to disengage the lizard from the pet. Chewing activity enhances venom deposition in the wounds; thus, the shorter the time the lizard is attached, the better the chances for minimal envenomation.
