Join us in exploring the fascinating world of the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum)
Learn about the natural history of one of the world’s only venomous lizards.
Responsible captive care information based on over twenty years of living with amazing Gila monsters.
Breeding and captive propagation information available here based on personal success and info available.
The pre egg-laying shed (what I calls PELS) is a sure signthings are progressing reproductively inside the female. This shed is different from any other – the pieces come off in large bits whereas it is usually small chunks over a period of 10 days or so during a regular shed. I ultrasound every few … Continue reading PELS bells! It’s almost time for Gila monster eggs!
This was a cool find from May 2025 Herpetological Review I picked up while doing my daily scour for new Gila info. Gilas are so secretive it’s a wonder we can get them to breed in captivity with all the activity and interaction they have with their keepers! There’s also a related video which may be … Continue reading Heloderma suspectum (Gila monster) First record of mating on the wild!
There aren’t many anecdotes of Gila monster bites the century, and especially not fatalities. When this envenomation occurred, there was a lot of speculation and talk about the victim’s health and speculative reasons why he died and so many others haven’t. Now the official report has been released and laid to bed any speculation. Check … Continue reading Just released! Fatality Following Gila Monster Envenomation official report!!
It’s that time of year of year, time to wake up the monsters and kick off the 2026 Gila monster breeding season! The cages have been cleaned and are ready to go, welcoming back home the inhabitants that have been in quiet winter slumber since December. The rise in temperature takes place over several weeks … Continue reading And so it begins! Welcome 2026 Gila monster breeding season!
Goatsby's Place 