Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus) is the most eastern representative of the very speciose genus Sceloporus. This widespread reptile has been recorded throughout Maryland, except for Garrett Co., where suitable habitat exists. Eastern Fence Lizards are adept climbers, and often flee to the relative safety of tree trunks if startled. This lizard can usually be found in wooded or semiopen habitats, often foraging at ground level in litter or on dead wood or split rail fences (hence the common name) (Conant & Collins, 1998; Maryland DNR site). They can also sometimes occur in rockier habitats, like shale barrens or strip mines. The males have an interesting courtship display, performing pushups to display iridescent blue patches of scales. These undulating movements are probably the origin of the specific name undulatus.
There are 537 records in the project database.
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