Uromastyx

Uromastyx is a genus of lizards in the family Agamidae. The genus is native to Africa and the Middle East (West Asia). Members of the species are commonly called spiny-tailed lizards, uromastyces, mastigures, or dabb lizards.

Lizards in the genus Uromastyx are primarily herbivorous, but occasionally eat insects and other small animals, especially young lizards. They spend most of their waking hours basking in the sun, hiding in underground chambers at nighttime or when danger appears. They tend to establish themselves in hilly, rocky areas with good shelter and accessible vegetation.