I had read an account on page 133 in the book- "Amphibians and Reptiles of Baja California, Including Its Pacific Islands and the Islands in the Sea of Cortés" about an "introgressive hybrid population of Sauromalus involving S. varius, S. hispidus, S. obesus." A picture of five hybrids appears on the same page. The island where this was observed occurred is Alcatraz in Bahia Kino.

Thinking in the same direction as your question, I purchased a juvenile male Calico in May and turned him loose with two NV Obesus 5-6 year old females in my outdoor enclosure; my enclosure has been around since 2001 and I have kept primarily Sauromalus and Dipsosaurus (with successful reproduction of each) as well as other common Mojave desert species. These females hadn't seen a male for more than two seasons.



Just this afternoon I saw a hatchling sunning on a rock in the enclosure. I was very surprised to see it as I thought my calico male was too young when introduced. So, unless simply the presence of a male would cause these females to access stored sperm (which some desert reptiles have the ability, not sure about chucks) I would say at this point it is very possible! I plan to take a picture of the little guy tomorrow and look for more. The enclosure is fairly large 8' x 30' with rocks and plants so they can hide very easily. I will try to post some pics if anyone is interested...

[ Reply To This Message ] [ Subscribe to this Thread ] [ Hide Replies ]