Center of Attention

A couple of weeks ago, we talked about iNaturalist and The City Nature Challenge. I hope you all got out and had the chance to make some observations. Recently, the Los Angeles Times featured the Western fence lizard. After reviewing the data, they found that the western fence lizard is the most observed species in the US.

There are over 130,000 verified observations of western fence lizards in California. Although they aren’t the most common species in the state, they are one of the most conspicuous. You may even have a memory of them running around doing push-ups. These are territorial displays done by males meant to deter other males from encroaching on their territory as well as a signal to females that they are worthy mates.

Despite being so highly recorded, scientists want you to keep making observations of these cool lizards!

Continuous observations allow scientists to see what lizard (and other species) populations look like over time. Are the species doing well, or are they declining? This data helps scientists know where to put their focus.

Even if you don’t have western fence lizards in your area, I hope you get a chance to get outside, record some lizards or other wildlife species, and have fun.

In the meantime, can you #FindThatLizard?

Let me know in the comments with #FoundThatLizard!