Most Common Lizard in Los Angeles

California is home to more than 60 different lizard types. Of these lizard types, the Side-blotched Lizard is the most common in the county of Los Angeles. This lizard belongs to the genus Uta and is named for the dark blotch on its side behind the front legs. There are two different types of side-blotch species but only the Western Side-blotched Lizard is found in Los Angeles County.

  1. Physical Description

    • The Side-blotch Lizard can grow up to an average of 6 inches long (including the tail). Its colors may vary from orange-tan to gray-brown. A dark blue or grayish-black colored blotch mark can be found behind each of its front legs. The belly side of the lizard is consistently pale gray. Its scales on the upper body are small and rigid while the scales of the belly are smooth and flat.

    Habitat and Behavior

    • The Side-blotch Lizard is a ground dwelling lizard. They can be found in arid and semi-arid regions throughout Los Angeles County and other dry areas of the west coast. These lizards are one of the first to come out in the spring time and one of the last to go into hibernation in the fall. Side-blotch Lizards can be found perching on a rock during high activity months or hiding under a log during low activity times.

    Predator and Prey

    • The Side-blotch Lizard is insectivorous, which means it feeds on insects, worms and other invertebrate species. They eat grasshoppers, ants, termites, small spiders, beetles and some scorpion types. The lizard is a forager, which means it's a hunter. It quietly waits for its prey to enter its vicinity and then attacks and feeds on it. Side-blotch Lizards that are kept as pets are fed meal worms and flies. The Side-blotch Lizard is considered to be very low on the food-chain. Many scorpions and small hawks prey on Side-blotch Lizards.

    Breeding

    • Side-blotch Lizards have a long breeding season. Their breeding season lasts between the months of March and August. Within these months, the male lizard will change in colors -- developing blue spots on its back and sides. The female does not go through this color change. Each female lizard lays between one and three clutches with two to five eggs in each clutch. The young lizards hatch in May and June of the next year.