Southern Sagebrush Lizard
When I first saw this lizard, I thought it was a western fence lizard but upon further inspection I realized it must be a southern sagebrush lizard. The scale size and pattern were slightly different. Now that I’ve identified the lizard, can you #FindThatLizard.
Similar to other spiny lizards, male southern sagebrush lizards, Sceloporus vandenburgianus, are very territorial. They do push-ups and show off their blue bellies. They defend their territories even outside of mating season, which occurs from May to July. From June - August, the females lay eggs, and the young hatch in August and September.
Surprisingly, these little lizards are good jumpers and will jump from rock to rock. Although they are also good climbers, they mostly live on the ground, so you’ll see them near brush piles like the one pictured, rocks, bushes, and logs.
Let me know if you #FoundThatLizard in the comments!
