Herp Happenings! is a blog series dedicated to sharing the curious and wonderful things we all should know about amphibians and reptiles.
When exploring the great outdoors of Southern California, it is not uncommon to have the fortune of crossing paths with the scurrying little four-legged critters we call lizards. These animals exist in a fascinating variety of colors and patterns that have adapted to both keep them hidden from hungry predators as well as be noticed by potential mates when that special time of year comes around. Paired with their size and shape, these colors and patterns are also of use when trying to distinguish which lizard one has come across. Below are photographs and quick descriptions for some of Southern California’s most familiar lizard encounters. But before beginning, remember that these cold-blooded animals aren’t able to afford moving about wherever they please as the energy they receive from food and the sun limits their behavior. With that in mind, you will most likely find them basking in the sun, waiting for prey or even seeking it out. As animals that are also commonly prey items themselves, lizards have evolved keen senses that allow them to feel, hear and see approaching animal, especially when that animal is something as large and conspicuous as a human being. So remember, walk slowly, look far ahead and if you see one, don’t be obvious, some researchers believe they are aware of where other animals are looking so they probably know you’re watching!
 At a glance:
| Sceloporus occidentalis (Western Fence Lizard) Fence lizards are one of the most well distributed species throughout California with a range from beyond the Oregon border to down through Mexico. Aside from urban backyards, these lizards inhabit a variety of habitats from wet woodlands to coastal scrub and chaparral. They can be found basking on rocks or any climbable surface from stucco walls to wooden fences.  |
 At a glance:
| Uta stansburiana (Common Side-Blotched Lizard) Another regular member of Southern California’s lizard demographic, this species can be found from rocky deserts with sparse vegetation to low-elevation mountains and chaparral. They regularly bask on rocks or amongst debris and blend in well with stone and gravel.  |
 At a glance:
| Elgaria multicarinata (Southern Alligator Lizard) These lizards are named for their strange resemblance to crocodiles and alligators. They prefer environments with running water and are often seen in suburban communities with irrigated gardens and lawns. They’re excellent climbers and can ascend trees in search of insects and bird eggs.  |
 At a glance:
| Aspidoscelis tigris (Western Whiptail) This fast moving species can be found throughout the Central Valley and Southern California. They inhabit warm dry areas from chaparral to woodlands. Unlike opportunistic reptiles that sit and wait for prey, whiptails are active foragers and this species is often found on the go. This species can look a lot like the side-blotched so its behavior will help to tell them apart!  |
 At a glance:
| Phrynosoma blainvillii (Coastal Horned Lizard) Also commonly called “horny toads,” these dragon-like little creatures are scattered all along Southern California’s coast and up into the Central Valley. They prefer sandy environments with loose soil and can also be found scurrying around chaparral and woodland communities.  |
If you’re willing to pick these animals up, the best time to do so is in the morning before the sun has had a chance to warm them and bring their metabolism into an active range. Serious harm caused by lizards is almost unheard of, while the contrary is all too common. Never hold lizards by the tail, as many of them are capable of detaching this appendage as a means of escape. While some can grow them back, to do so is costly for the animal and full function may never be regained. It is also unwise to shift or tilt rocks that lizards seek shelter under, as the space beneath these objects is often quite tight and moving them risks crushing the animal underneath. Unless you can lift it straight up in one try, it is best to leave the rock alone and wait for the lizard to reemerge -you need a rest anyway. Holding lizards by their hind limbs or around their bodies will always be the safest practice. Now get out there and observe these little things in the great outdoors of Southern California!
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