Gila Monster Flashcards
What is the conservation status of the Gila monster?
Near threatened.
What are some threats to the survival of the Gila monster?
People hunt them out of fear, habitat destruction.
What was the first venomous animal to ever be given legal protection and when was this granted?
The Gila monster in 1952.
Why is the Gila monster not a true threat to humans?
It gives a lot of warning before it bites. It is also not fast or aggressive.
How long can a Gila monster get?
Up to two feet.
What is the possible explanation for people believing the bite of the Gila monster to be fatal?
Old time treatments often did more harm than the bite.
What is unique about the way Gila monsters dispense venom?
They cannot inject it. It is secreted and chewed in. They also have their venom gland in their lower jaw as opposed to their upper jaw.
When was the last fatality from a Gila monster bite?
1939
What are some symptoms of the Gila monster’s bite?
Excruciating pain, edema, and a drop in blood pressure.
What sicknesses has the venom of the Gila monster been found to treat?
Synthesizing the venom can create exenatide, which is used to treat type two diabetes. It also contains helodermin, which inhibits the growth of lung cancer. Current research is also showing that certain components help improve memory in mice, which is being tested to treat schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease.
What are the two subspecies of the Gila monster and where are they found?
Reticulated (found in the northern parts of its range)
Banded (found in the southern parts)
What is the range and habitat of the Gila monster?
It is found in the southwestern United states and northern Mexico in desert, scrubland, and oaken forests.
What does the Gila monster do during the day?
Hide in thickets, burrows, or under rocks. They also come out to bask.
True or false, the Gila monster prefers to be near water.
True.
What do Gila monsters eat?
Mostly eggs, but also small mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and carrion.
How often do Gila monsters eat?
5 - 10 times a year.
The Gila monster can smell prey under sand that is how deep?
Six inches.
What are some predators of the Gila monster?
Primarily raptors and coyotes.
True or false, the Gila monster cannot climb trees.
False. They can climb trees to reach prey.
What age are Gila monsters sexually mature at?
3 - 5
What is the lifespan of the Gila monster?
20 years in the wild, 30 in captivity.
How many eggs does the Gila monster lay?
2 - 12
What did native American tribes think of the Gila monster?
Some thought of it as an evil spirit, others believed it had healing powers.
When are Gila monsters active?
During the morning, warm nights, or after intense rainfall.
Where does the second part of the Gila monster’s scientific name come from?
“Suspectum” comes from the initial describer suspecting it might be venomous due to the grooves in the teeth.
Can Gila monsters inject venom from birth?
Yes.
What is the name of the 1959 monster movie starring a Gila monster?
The Giant Gila Monster
Besides the venom, what did the pioneers believe the Gila monster could kill with?
Its breath.
