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Northern Fence Lizard
Sceloporus undulatus hyacinthinus
photo by Jim Horton
Description
Indiana's only “spiny” lizard, rough-scaled and gray-brown, that dashes up tree trunks and fence posts. Males flash blue belly patches in display.
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.
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