| Description:
The Northern Fence Lizard ranges in size from 4-7 inches.
Coloration is gray or brown with darker mottling. The scales on
the back of this lizard are keeled and pointed, making the back look
"spiny". This is the only spiny lizard naturally found
in Kentucky. Males have a bright greenish or pinkish coloring on
the sides and a blue area on the throat. Females have a series of
dark lines crossing the sides of the back and a yellow to red color at
the base of the tail.
Habitat: Found in dry
areas in woodland or open habitats. Often seen on split-rail
fences.
Behavior: The Northern
Fence Lizard often scampers for the nearest tree when approached,
staying on the opposite side of the trunk from the intruder. One
can often see the lizard up close by reaching around the trunk with a
hand while standing still. The lizard will run around to your side
of the tree to escape the hand. |
