Fence Lizard

Description

The Fence Lizard is a small lizard that varies in color from brown, gray, to black. Sometimes the color is completely black. Adults characteristically have blue on the sides of their bellies and on their throats, and are often referred to as "Blue Belly" lizards. Like many lizards, the Fence Lizard likes warmer weather and is usually observed basking in the sun.

This lizard is a very common animal and may be the species of lizard you see most often in southern California. We have seen them in just about every warm environment - the desert areas of the Inland Empire, the San Gabriel Mountains and Foothills, the Angeles and San Bernardino National Forests and the southern California coastal habitats to name a few. It is also often found in populated areas. For a list of sightings of this animal, you can view our Sightings and Observations Log and search on "Fence Lizard".

The Fence Lizard's approximate size, from snout to vent is 4 inches, and from snout to end of tail is 8.5 inches.

Family: Lizard.

Field Notes

The Fence Lizard can often be observed doing a behavior resembling push-ups.