Going to Arizona, would appreciate some tips...

[RTHawker]

Hey guys, I'm gonna be going to Arizona in June and would love to field tips for checking out lizards.

I am from Washington State, the only reptiles I have ever seen in the wild are our alligator lizards (not often though) and garter snake. We have a few other lizards and snakes native to the eastern part of the state, but where I am its pretty much only those two. Otherwise you can see a lot of chorus frogs and salamanders.

You can imagine my excitement then, this chance to look for other herps in Arizona. I will be in Tonopah, Maricopa County.

What would be a common lizard to look for in that area?
How common are venomous snakes to non venomous snakes and lizards?
Any tips on finding them?
Aside from "Don't lift rocks with bare fingers" any advice on avoiding venomous critters?

Thanks