WESTERN FENCE LIZARD
Sceloporus occidentalis
DESCRIPTION
The Western Fence Lizard, also known as the blue-belly, is a small to medium-sized lizard characterized by its rough, spiny scales and a distinctive blue coloration on its belly. They typically exhibit a gray or brown coloration on their dorsal side, which helps them blend into their rocky or sandy habitats. These lizards are known for their territorial behavior, often seen basking on rocks or logs, and they play a crucial role in their ecosystems as both predators and prey.
FUN FACTS
- Western Fence Lizards are known for their ability to regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun and seeking shade when necessary
- They also have a unique defense mechanism where they can change their color slightly to blend in with their surroundings, making them harder for predators to spot.| These lizards play an important role in controlling insect populations in their habitats
- Their presence can indicate a healthy ecosystem, as they help maintain the balance between various species in the food web
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-7 years in the wild
Average Length15-20 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, with males often defending territories against other males
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- These lizards are commonly found in open, dry habitats such as grasslands, scrublands, and rocky areas. They prefer sunny locations where they can bask and hunt for insects.
- Biomes
- Grassland, Scrubland, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- The Western Fence Lizard is native to the western United States, ranging from California to parts of Oregon, Nevada, and Utah.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- United States
- Diet
- Western Fence Lizards primarily feed on a variety of insects, including ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. They are opportunistic feeders and will consume whatever small invertebrates are available in their environment.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- ants, beetles, grasshoppers
- Social Structure
- solitary, with males often defending territories against other males
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 1
VU
LC
15-20 cm
Length
- Coloration
- gray or brown with a blue belly
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males have brighter blue bellies compared to females
- Lifespan
- 5-7 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-20 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Western Fence Lizards is generally stable, but local declines may occur due to habitat loss.
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urban development and agricultural practices. Additionally, climate change may impact their habitats and food availability.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, and larger mammals
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can drop their tails to escape predators and have a quick running speed to evade capture.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon