The common side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana) is one of the most abundant lizards in South California. They are able to survive in a variety of habitats, and prefer open, rocky areas. As with many other lizards in this region, their tails may break off if they are caught, and will grow back to some extent. Their life span is only about a year, and they produce eggs in the spring and summer. Active during the day, they eat small invertebrates. They should be very happy in this area, where we have a huge supply of crickets and grasshoppers.
Showing posts with label lizards. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lizards. Show all posts
Side-Blotched Lizard
The common side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana) is one of the most abundant lizards in South California. They are able to survive in a variety of habitats, and prefer open, rocky areas. As with many other lizards in this region, their tails may break off if they are caught, and will grow back to some extent. Their life span is only about a year, and they produce eggs in the spring and summer. Active during the day, they eat small invertebrates. They should be very happy in this area, where we have a huge supply of crickets and grasshoppers.
Alligator Lizard
We see a lot of lizards in this area. This is a southern alligator lizard (Elgaria multicarinata), a little over a foot long, relaxing in my driveway. Some individuals will grow to twice this length. These reptiles eat insects and snails, occasionally smaller lizards or bird eggs. If grabbed by a predator, the tail will break off easily, enabling the lizard to escape. (However, I have seen cats temporarily distracted by the tail who then went on to capture and eat the lizard.) The tail will regenerate to some extent, but the new tail will never have the length or beauty of its predecessor. This lucky little guy still has his original tail.
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