The Texas Horned Lizard's intimidating exterior is quite opposite from its docile and gentle nature. They spend their days eating, sunbathing and eluding predators. Their activities are based on an internal biological clock. They emerge from their burrows shortly before sunrise and, with their backs toward the sun, they bask to bring about a fast rise in body temperature. Once properly warmed, they remain active until the time comes to retreat into shaded areas to avoid the most intense heat of the day.
Horned lizards have a unique repertoir of defense.
When threatened, their first reaction is to flatten out and freeze in place. This enable the horned lizard to blend in with the ground as well as reduce the casting of a body shadow. Unfortunately, many horned lizards are killed because they bask on roadways and simply to not move when a car approaches. Another defensive reaction is to run briefly then suddenly stop, seemingly creating the illusion of disappearance. When disturbed or in an extremely agitated state, the Texas Horned Lizard also is capable of inflating its body, hissing, and even squirting blood from its eyes in order to deter predators.