Texas Horned Lizard, Horny Toad, Phrynosoma cornutum... whatever name you know them by, they're the star of so many of our childhood memories. Generations of Oklahomans and Texans grew up admiring these lizards by the dozens- abundant, friendly, and wise in their own special way. But when is the last time you've seen one? Sightings are down, populations are struggling, and nobody- not even the scientists- are sure exactly why. Is it habitat loss? Urban sprawl? But wait- we used to see them in town, too! Weakened food supply? Pesticides? Traffic causing road kills? A disease? Fire suppression? Loss of buffalo from the ecosystem? Reduced prairie dog populations? Invasive plants? Invasive ants? Something else? All of the above?

There are so many possible answers... but what is the recipe for recovery? We're on a mission to find out just that, and take the actionable steps needed to see this species thrive once more.

EcoBalance is observing the horned lizard populations hanging on by a thread at random gravel parking lots and distant Oklahoma backroads. We're learning how we can help as ecosystem stewards and environmental educators. We're acquiring land for conservation and restoring the native prairie habitat they've always called home.

We invite you to join us by supporting the Texas Horned Lizard Conservation Program.

Texas Horned Lizard Conservation Program

Calling all Texas Horned Lizard fans!