Eastern Fence Lizard

Eastern Fence Lizard, Sceloporus undulatus

Sometimes confused for another member of the Phrynosomatidae family, the horned lizard, the fence lizards are of a different genus. Of the two species of fence lizard, the Eastern Fence Lizard has a wider range across the eastern and southern states and includes eight subspecies. They can be found in grasslands, shrubland, forests, and suburban homes, but rarely far from trees. While overall grayish, the females have black horizontal patterning on their back, and, during breeding season, males can be seen with bright blue patches on their underside and chin. They are primarily insectivores, but females have been observed consuming plant matter in spring for egg-laying. A clutch of up to 16 eggs may be laid, and while young females usually only lay one clutch a year, older females may lay up to four clutches within a year. These are deposited under the soil, but receive no additional parental care.

Photography courtesy of Brittany Young. Thank you!