In other areas of its range, the Pygmy Lizard, has been threatened by oil and gas exploration in Alberta. Wells, pumping stations, and roads are found throughout the entire region that the lizard inhabits. A more usual litter, however, would probably be between five and ten. Mating in April and May, the lizards have a gestation period that is approximately three months long. Short-horned lizards give birth in August and September to young that usually have a body length of about 25 mm when born.
Sexual maturity is attained, in males, in the summer after the first winter dormancy .
For females it has not been determined. As well, recapture records suggest that females live as long as five years, but no such estimate has been made for male lifespan. They are active during the day, but very difficult to see because of their protective markings and spines, and habit of remaining motionless if approached. Typically, horned lizards are active earlier in the morning and later in the evening than are other lizards and frequently have quite variable body temperatures. In addition, they will bury themselves in sandy soil to avoid the heat of the day.