An immature Eastern fence lizard (Sceloporus undulatus) sits on the crest of a rock. Notice how it has its toes raised off the rock to keep them cool from the heat of the rock in the sun. I found the juxtaposition of the light, shadows and patterns interesting.
Eastern fence lizards decrease insect and arachnid populations, which can be pest species in some areas. Their prey include a number of invertebrates such as ants, beetles, moths, spiders, grasshoppers, and stink bugs.
Male Eastern Fence lizards have brightly colored underbellies, some with blue. Males often do "push-ups" or head-bobs to attract mates and to warn other males encroaching on their territory. These are usually in 5 second durations.
Within the past 70 years, according to a study published in 2009, eastern fence lizards in parts of their range have adapted to have longer legs and new behaviors to escape the red imported fire ant.
Photo # 81019_KS10151bw. October, 2008.
(c) Kelly Shipp Photography.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment