Whiptail

A sketch I started to like too much to leave as a sketch. Yes, the background is sparse and lazy. Yes, I named it after the Sonoran desert lizard.

Whiptails use both their speed and incredibly flexible tail when hunting. Once the prey has been spotted, they sprint toward it and then lash out with their tails, either stunning their prey or merely using it as a distraction to force the hapless creature toward the Whiptail. Its narrow head hides rows of short, backward-pointing teeth, which allow it to tightly grip prey and keep it from escaping. They typically hunt in the late morning/early evening just after/before dusk.

The "spines" on the neck, shoulders, and hips are actually elongated scales that can change color: dark to soak up sunlight on cool days and more vibrant colors during breeding season to attract mates.

Graphite on printer paper, 8.5 x 11 inches.