I took this photo of a Zebra-Tailed Lizard (Callisaurus draconoides) in our back yard yesterday.
From Wikipedia:
They range in size from 2.5 to 4 inches in length. They rise early and are active in all but the hottest weather. During the hottest times of day, lizards may stand alternately on two legs, switching to the opposite two as needed in a kind of dance. When threatened they will run swiftly with their toes curled up and tails raised over their backs exposing the stripes. They can even run on their hind legs for short distances. In areas of creosote scrub this lizard seems to reach highest densities, around 4.8 to 6.0 individuals per acre. This lizard burrows into fine sand for retreat at night and usually seeks day shelter in the shade of bushes.
Click on the image to enlarge.
