Western fence lizard

[ SCELOPORUS OCCIDENTALIS ]

As the spring sun begins to warm the winter earth, expect to hear occasional rustles of awakening fence lizards among the dry, crinkled leaves and grasses. Sluggish at first, but soon heated on sun-drenched rocks, these handsome “blue bellies” have a knack for skittering away and startling passing hikers. First to emerge in spring, males set up territories around prominent rocks where they stand on high perches to show off their blue bellies and throats with enthusiastic bobbing motions. For the first month or so, much of this pomp and ceremony merely helps establish a pecking order in preparation for breeding. During this time, smaller females emerge from hibernation and fatten up on small insects. After a brief courtship in March or April, they will lay three to 17 eggs a month later.

NATURAL HISTORY

One of California’s most common and widespread lizards. Partial to sunny areas with rocks and logs. Often found around picnic areas or scenic viewpoints where many have their tails broken off by humans trying to catch them. Their tails grow back the first time but not on subsequent occasions.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

A brown and gray lizard with dark chevron marks above and blue markings below, up to 7 inches long and fairly stocky in shape.