The Texas horned lizard, along with at least three other species of the genus Phrynosoma, also has the ability to squirt an aimed stream of blood
from the corners of the eyes and sometimes from its mouth at a distance
up to 5 ft (1.5 m). They do this by restricting the blood flow leaving
the head, thereby increasing blood pressure and rupturing tiny vessels
around the eyelids. This not only confuses would-be predators, but also the blood is mixed with a chemical that is foul-tasting to canine predators such as wolves, coyotes,
and domestic dogs. This novel behavior is generally observed to be very
effective in defense; however, it appears to have no effect against
predatory birds.
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