The Texas horned lizard has one of the most unusual defense mechanisms in the entire animal kingdom. When confronted by dangerous predators like coyotes or foxes, this small reptile can restrict the blood flow leaving its head. This dramatic action causes the blood pressure in its eyes to rise rapidly until small vessels rupture.
The lizard then squirts a stream of foul tasting blood directly from the corners of its eyes. This targeted red spray can reach distances of up to five feet away, completely surprising the attacker. The blood contains chemical compounds that taste terrible to canine predators, forcing them to drop the lizard and shake their heads in disgust.
While losing blood might seem dangerous, the lizard can safely spray up to one third of its total blood supply without suffering permanent harm. Once the predator runs away, the lizard quickly recovers and goes back to hunting ants in the desert.
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Disclaimer: This video is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information comes from public educational sources and images serve to illustrate the concept.
