The Texas Horned Lizard, also known as the horny toad, is a distinctive species native to the southwestern United States, particularly Texas. Recognizable by its flattened body and a crown of horns on its head, this lizard is well-adapted to arid environments, primarily feeding on ants and other small invertebrates. It has developed unique defense mechanisms, including the ability to change color to blend in with its surroundings and, when threatened, can squirt a stream of blood from its eyes to deter predators. Once abundant, its populations have declined due to habitat loss, and it is now considered a species of concern in several areas.