Our study is designed to increase the knowledge of diet in the state Species of Special Concern, Blainville's Horned Lizard. We will be assessing diet in adults and hatchlings by using two techniques to analyze their scat, standard microscopy (dissecting scope) and molecular DNA barcoding approaches. By validating the use of molecular techniques to identify prey items in horned lizard scat, we can apply these techniques to sites throughout its range to gather critical information about this declining species and assess the ongoing impact of the Argentine ant. This information will build on dietary knowledge from previous studies at Elliott and other locations. In the visits covered by this application we request access to the site to search for ant and horned lizard activity and to collect horned lizard scats and prey items. Vehicle Information: 2019 Subaru Crosstrek 8KRW973

Approved