Western fence lizards are commonly called “spiny lizards.” This is because they have spiny scales on their backs and limbs. Depending on their environment, they are usually tan, gray, or brown, but they can also appear black in some areas. Male western fence lizards have throat and belly patches that are usually blue in color, and they have some scattered green scales as well. These lizards look a lot like sagebrush lizards, only they have orange or yellow-colored areas on the backs of their limbs striped with black lines. These quick reptiles are also larger than their cousins, the sagebrush lizards; they grow to be about eight inches in length (including tail).

 

 

Western fence lizards like to live in vertical environments, meaning that they like to have rocks, logs, or trees to climb. They are usually found on BLM lands dwelling in rock outcroppings, rocky slopes, cliff faces, and forested areas. If you are visiting BLM lands, look carefully at rocks, logs, and trees; you may see them sitting in the sun or hunting for food.

 

 

These lizards love to munch on beetles, flies, caterpillars, spiders, ants, and other insects. They stealthily sneak up on their prey and…pounce! Crunch! Supper is served.