Western Fence Lizard
Sceloporus occidentalis
Conservation Status
Least ConcernReptilia · Phrynosomatidae
About
The western fence lizard is a species of lizard native to Arizona, New Mexico, and California, as well as Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Northern Mexico. The species is widely found in its native range and is considered common, often being seen in yards, or as the name implies, on fences. As the ventral abdomen of an adult is characteristically blue, it is also known as the blue-belly. Two western fence lizards have been reported with duplicated or forked tails, presumably following an autotomy.
Fun Fact
The species is widely found in its native range and is considered common, often being seen in yards, or as the name implies, on fences.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in eastern and southwestern Oregon (some populations are found even north of Seattle, Washington), as well as in the Columbia River Gorge, southwestern Idaho, Nevada, western Utah, northwestern Baja California, New Mexico, Arizona, and some of the islands off the coast of both California and Baja California.
Diet
Feeds on terrestrial invertebrates.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance