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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- A wildlife group is asking for federal protection for Gila Monsters in Utah.
Santa Fe, N.M.-based WildEarth Guardians says the population of the lizard has been decimated by the urban sprawl in southwestern Utah.
The Gila Monster is found throughout the Southwest. According to WildEarth, Gila Monsters are faring well in other areas, but their numbers have dwindled in the St. George area as the human population has grown.
Gila Monsters, which grow to a little more than a foot long and weigh about a pound, are the only venomous lizard in the United States. The slow-moving creatures are vulnerable to being hit by vehicles while crossing roads.
Dr. Nicole Rosmarino of WildEarth Guardians says Gila Monsters need federal protection under the Endangered Species Act to help the population bounce back in Utah.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
