Eastern Fence Lizard Sceloporus undulatus

Identification
This lizard has rough keeled scales and a gray or brown body with wavy markings. Males display blue patches on the belly during breeding season.

Location
Uncommon in Ohio

Size
4 to 7 inches

Diet
It feeds on insects spiders and small invertebrates.

Habitat
It occurs in southern Ohio on rocky slopes and forest edges.

Activity Period
April to September

Behavior
It is agile and frequently climbs trees and rocks. It basks on exposed surfaces and flees quickly when disturbed. It is most active in warm sunny weather.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females lay eggs in early summer.

Population
The population is stable but localized.

History
It has historically been limited to southern regions.

Human Interactions
It is harmless and quick to flee.

Facts
It is the only spiny lizard species in Ohio.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Insects spiders small invertebrates | Rocky outcrops forests edges | Southern Ohio