Sceloporus occidentalis Western Fence Lizard Sceloporus from the Greek skelos, meaning leg and porus, meaning pores in reference to their femoral pores located along the underside of the leg. The name occidentalis refers to their western distribution. The species as a whole (S. occidentalis) is called the Western Fence Lizard. These lizards are more commonly called "Blue-bellies" or "Swifts." Description The Western Fence Lizard measures 3 1/2 inches (snout-vent length), and is about six inches in total length. Coloration ranges from light gray to black with dark blotches on the back that continue down the tail. Male Western Fence Lizards have bright blue, sometimes greenish, bellies, and the undersides of their legs are yellow. Females lack this decorative coloring. The scales are keeled and somewhat spiny. The Western Fence Lizard is distributed throughout eastern Oregon, southwest Idaho, all of Nevada, western Utah, Southern California, and northwestern Baja California. It is commonly found from the coast to the highest mountain areas at over 6,000 feet. It isn't found in the desert. This lizard is conspicuous and common in its range. It thrives in a wide variety of habitats, ranging from coastal sage scrub and chaparral on the coast and foothills, to the forests of higher elevations. It's usually found on or near the ground, in rock and wood piles, tree trunks, and the lower branches of shrubs. Prey and Predators: Its diet consists of insects and various other arthropods. Unfortunately, its love of high places makes it easy prey for snakes, hawks, and predaceous mammals. Kingsnakes and Striped Racers are particularly fond of fence lizards. The Western Fence Lizard avoids danger through constant vigilance and fast reflexes. The bright blue patches along the sides of the body of the male give this lizard the common name of "Blue-belly."