Plateau fence lizard
The plateau fence lizard (Sceloporus tristichus) is a spiny lizard found in the rocky and wooded areas of central Arizona, southwestern Utah, western Colorado, and parts of New Mexico and Wyoming. This grayish, brownish, or greenish reptile is characterized by keeled scales, dark cross-bands on its back, and distinctive metallic blue patches on its belly and throat. It is known to be inactive during extreme temperatures and primarily feeds on insects and other arthropods.
Key Facts
- ›Found in central Arizona, southwestern Utah, western Colorado, and parts of New Mexico and Wyoming.
- ›Inhabits rocky and wooded areas, utilizing canyon walls and fallen tree trunks.
- ›Possesses keeled scales and a series of dark cross-bands on its body.
- ›Features metallic blue patches on its belly and throat.
- ›Diet consists mainly of insects, spiders, and other arthropods.
- ›Inactive during cold periods and the hottest parts of summer days.
Plateau Fence Lizard
Arizona, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming
Rocky Areas, Wooded Areas, Canyon Walls, Boulder-Strewn Hillsides
- Up To 80 mm From Snout To Vent.
- Grayish, Brownish, Or Greenish Coloration.
- Keeled Scales On the Upper Side of the Body.
- Series of Narrow Dark Brown Cross-Bands On Both Sides of the Midline.
- Elongated Metallic Blue Patch On Each Side of the Belly and Throat.
- Males Are Typically Smaller Than Females.
Insects, Spiders, Other Arthropods
- Inactive During Cold Periods.
- Inactive During the Hottest Part of the Day In Summer.
- Utilizes Natural Structures For Vantage Points.
About Plateau fence lizard
The plateau fence lizard, scientifically known as Sceloporus tristichus, is a species of spiny lizard belonging to the Phrynosomatidae family. This reptile is characterized by its distinctive coloration and physical features, and it occupies a specific ecological niche within its geographic range.
Description and Physical Characteristics
Adult plateau fence lizards typically measure up to 80 millimeters (3.1 inches) from snout to vent. Their coloration can range from grayish, brownish, to greenish. A notable feature is the presence of keeled scales covering the upper side of their bodies, which gives them a rough texture. Along their backs, they possess a series of narrow, dark brown cross-bands. Perhaps their most striking feature is an elongated, metallic blue patch found on each side of their belly and throat. Males are generally smaller than females, a common trait among many lizard species, with observed average snout-to-vent lengths differing between sexes in certain populations.
Distribution and Habitat
This species is primarily found in the central regions of Arizona, southwestern Utah, and western Colorado, with occurrences also noted in the San Luis Valley. Its range extends into parts of New Mexico and Wyoming. The plateau fence lizard prefers habitats that are both rocky and wooded. It commonly makes use of natural formations such as canyon walls, hillsides covered in boulders, and fallen tree trunks, utilizing these features for shelter and as vantage points for observing its surroundings.
Ecology and Behavior
The plateau fence lizard exhibits specific behavioral patterns related to its environment. It is known to be inactive during periods of cold weather, indicating a reliance on external temperatures for activity. Furthermore, it conserves energy by remaining inactive during the hottest parts of summer days. Its diet is largely composed of insects, spiders, and other small arthropods, marking it as an insectivore within its ecosystem.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the plateau fence lizard look like?
The plateau fence lizard is a grayish, brownish, or greenish lizard. It has keeled scales on its upper body, with narrow dark brown cross-bands. A distinctive feature is an elongated metallic blue patch on each side of its belly and throat.
Where can I find a plateau fence lizard?
These lizards are generally found in central Arizona, southwestern Utah, western Colorado, and the San Luis Valley. They can also be observed in parts of New Mexico and Wyoming.
What kind of environment does the plateau fence lizard prefer?
The plateau fence lizard typically inhabits rocky and wooded areas. They make use of natural structures like canyon walls, boulder-strewn hillsides, and fallen tree trunks for shelter and vantage points.
What does the plateau fence lizard eat?
The diet of the plateau fence lizard primarily consists of insects, spiders, and other arthropods. They are insectivorous predators within their habitat.
When is the plateau fence lizard most active?
The plateau fence lizard is not active during cold periods, such as winter. It also avoids activity during the hottest parts of summer days, likely to conserve energy and avoid overheating.
Related Lizards
Sceloporus merriami
The canyon lizard, scientifically known as Sceloporus merriami, is a species of lizard native to the rocky desert areas of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is characterized by its small dorsal scales, granular lateral scales, and coloration that matches its rocky habitat, often featuring dark spots and a black line before its front leg. Males also display distinctive blue and black lines on their throats.
Desert monitor
The desert monitor (Varanus griseus) is a large carnivorous lizard found across North Africa and Central and South Asia. It exhibits varied coloration from light brown to grey and can reach up to 2 meters in length. Known for its adaptability, the desert monitor inhabits arid and semi-arid regions, preying on a wide range of vertebrates and invertebrates.
Plestiodon inexpectatus
The Plestiodon inexpectatus, commonly known as the southeastern five-lined skink, is a widespread lizard found throughout the southeastern United States. This diurnal species is characterized by its five distinct stripes, which fade with age, and a bright blue tail in juveniles. They inhabit wooded areas and are notable for their ability to survive on coastal islands even without fresh water.