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Western Fence Lizard
(Sceloporus occidentalis)
Description:6-9 1/4" (15.2-23.5 cm). Spiny;scales on back of thigh abruptly smaller. Scales on back same size as those on sides and belly. Olive, brownish, or black, with pattern of paired blotches or wavy crossbars down back and occasionally some striping. Undersurfaces of legs yellowish-orange. Blue patches on sides of belly; adult male has blue patch on throat.Breeding: Mates early spring. Single clutch of 3-14 eggs, laid May to July, hatches July to September.
Habitat: Rocky and mixed forest areas from sea level to above 9,000' (2,700 m). Adapts to wide variety of conditions but not to desert. Frequents stone fences, fence posts, old buildings.
Range: C. Idaho south through Nevada and west to the Pacific coast.
Discussion: Diurnal. Easily encountered; may be observed even in midwinter on mild days. Commonly called the blue-belly, it is often seen displaying to attract females or drive off male intruders; it bobs its head and flattens its sides, showing off the blue patches.