Researchers found that reticulate collared lizards (Crotaphytus reticulatus) use significantly different microhabitats during day versus night, with both habitat choices differing from randomly available sites. During the day, these threatened Texas lizards prefer moderately open, gravelly areas with scattered boulders and sparse vegetation, while at night they seek dense thickets of woody and succulent plants for protection. This study highlights the unique nocturnal habitat preference of C. reticulatus compared to related species and emphasizes the importance of private land stewardship in maintaining these specific habitat requirements for conservation efforts.
