It's a horny toad!

[Widowman10]

good point rev, but interestingly enough, nevada is one of the only states to still allow commercial exploitation of HLs. most species are protected by state laws though, and make it illegal to possess one.

 

[myrmecophile]

The thing to keep in mind as well is that they do very much have ranges, not as extensive as wolves but they have a home range all the same. If removed from their little piece of heaven they will lose that home range to another lizard. Doesnt matter how "thick" they are in a field, the range/territory exists. Yes the instinct to do certain things will still be there but if the home range is no longer there trying to find it again often precludes all other survival instincts. Honestly I do not know how much study has been done in this regard with these animals but it has been proven time and again that searching for a home range is devastating to relocated snakes.
Certain species do adapt adequately to alternate diets but most do not. I do not recall if this species is one of the adaptable ones or not.

 

[dtknow]

Agreed, lizards home ranges are vital to their survival. Without access/familiarity with prime areas of habitat survival rate tends to be low.

IMO unless you are keeping something overnight to photo or similar, if you catch something and take it home you should intend to keep it permanently.

I know I would have been sorely tempted to take one myself...but this is one animal that definitely should be left wild.

 

[super-pede]

these don't last long in captivity.even when provided with the right conditions unfortunately.they are commonly taken home as pets only to die a couple weeks later. I think you should let him go into his natural home.