With the possible exception of the vampire bat, no North American animal has been the source of more superstitions, legends, and exaggerated claims than the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). Not only is the Gila monster America's only poisonous lizard, it is the only reptile having an armored hide, and the only lizard with a forked tongue like a snake's. No biologist has yet discovered a Gila monster nest or observed a Gila monster hatching in the wild. Authors David Brown and Neil Carmony have examined the available literature to write a very readable account of the lizard's natural history. The lore of the Southwest is replete with fantastic stories about Gila monsters, selections of which introduce and enliven many subsections of the book. The authors then proceed to dispel such myths with accurate, well-researched discussions of the scientific data. This entertaining and informative volume will be enjoyed by anyone interested in reptiles, the Southwest, or the lore of desert creatures. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.