Arabian Spiny-Tailed Lizard: A Wildlife Species Supporting Ecological Balance in Northern Borders Region

The Arabian spiny-tailed lizard, found in various locations across Northern Borders Region, is considered one of the most important wildlife species contributing to ecological balance and promoting environmental sustainability. This unique lizard holds deep cultural ties with the people of the Arabian Desert.

 Chairman of the Aman Environmental Association Nasser Al-Majlad noted that this wildlife species is abundant in the northern parts of the Kingdom and is considered an important reptile in folk heritage and proverbs.

 The lizard can reach lengths of up to 85 cm and is well adapted to the harsh desert environment, withstanding extreme heat and drought. Feeding primarily on annual plants and shrubs, it relies on plant sap for hydration, which helps preserve vegetation cover. The species inhabits open areas with firm soil and digs winding burrows reaching depths up to one and a half meters.

 Moreover, Al-Majlad indicated the population of the spiny-tailed lizard has recently begun to recover after being threatened with extinction a few years ago due to overhunting and drought. He added that this recovery is thanks to royal nature reserves and wildlife conservation programs aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.