What is a Plateau Fence Lizard (Sceloporus tristichus)
Plateau fence lizards are small, agile reptiles known for their distinctive appearance and interesting ecological characteristics. In this article, we will provide an overview of the Plateau fence lizard, including its taxonomy, size, body description, height, diet, reproduction, lifespan, and distribution.
Plateau Fence Lizard Overview
The Plateau fence lizard (Sceloporus tristichus) is a small, terrestrial lizard native to the western United States and Mexico. They inhabit a range of habitats, including rocky outcrops, grasslands, and woodlands. These lizards are characterized by their flattened bodies, spiny scales, and intricate coloration, which helps them blend in with their environment.
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Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Squamata
- Suborder: Iguania
- Family: Phrynosomatidae
- Genus: Sceloporus
- Species: S. tristichus
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Size and Body Description
Plateau fence lizards are small reptiles, typically measuring between 4 to 7 inches (10 to 18 centimeters) in total length, including their tails. Their bodies are covered with spiny scales, which give them a rough, textured appearance. These lizards have a distinct head, long limbs, and a slender, tapering tail. Their coloration varies from shades of brown, gray, or green, often with intricate patterns of blotches or stripes that help them blend in with their environment.
Diet
Plateau fence lizards are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects and other invertebrates, such as ants, spiders, and grasshoppers. They may also consume small vertebrates, such as baby rodents or other lizards, when the opportunity arises. Their diet may vary seasonally, depending on the availability of food sources.
Reproduction
Plateau fence lizards reproduce through oviparity, which means they lay eggs rather than giving birth to live young. Mating occurs in the spring, and the females lay clutches of 3 to 12 eggs in shallow nests dug in the soil. The eggs incubate for about 6 to 8 weeks before hatching, and the hatchlings emerge fully developed and independent, requiring no parental care.
Where Found
Plateau fence lizards are found in the western United States and Mexico, ranging from Arizona and New Mexico northward through Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including rocky outcrops, grasslands, and woodlands, at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 feet (900 to 2,400 meters). Their distribution is closely tied to the availability of suitable basking sites and shelter, as well as the presence of appropriate prey items.
How Long do Plateau Fence Lizards Live
The lifespan of Plateau fence lizards in the wild is not well documented, but it is estimated to be between 3 to 5 years on average. Their lifespan may be influenced by factors such as predation, habitat quality, and availability of food sources.
Plateau Fence Lizards Diet
Plateau fence lizards are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects and other invertebrates, such as ants, spiders, and grasshoppers. They may also consume small vertebrates, such as baby rodents or other lizards, when the opportunity arises. Their diet may vary seasonally, depending on the availability of food sources.
Conclusion
The Plateau fence lizard is an intriguing reptile with unique characteristics and ecological adaptations. By understanding their taxonomy, size, body description, height, diet, reproduction, lifespan, and distribution, we can appreciate the fascinating qualities of these lizards and the important role they play in the ecosystems they inhabit. As predators
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