top of page

Northern fence lizard

Sceloporus undulatus hyacinthinus

Description

A grey or light brown moderately stout body with distinct transverse bands and spiny, keeled scales. Males are brown or reddish with dark crossbands on the backside. Females are light grey with more distinct crossbands and small pale bluish patches under the throat and belly.

Stats

Size

4 – 7 inches

Status

Common in its range

Similar Species

None

Diet

Insectivore. Also feeds on spiders and other invertebrates.

Habitat

Dry, rocky ridges in oak and hickory dominated woodlands. May be found along dry, rocky lake edges with fallen trees.

Reproduction

Courtship and mating occurs in spring. Males are territorial and will protect their turf by bobbing their head rapidly up and down. Males develop bright blue coloration on the belly. Blue is also under the chin with a black border. Females will lay 4-8 eggs that hatch in summer.

bottom of page