Facts about Fence Lizard

1. 08

   A fence lizard's heart rate can exceed 600 beats per minute during peak activity, compared to roughly 100 beats per minute while at rest.

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2. 07

   Arboreal fence lizards can ascend vertical tree bark using specialized toe pad scales with microscopic grooves that provide exceptional grip on rough surfaces.

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3. 06

   Temperatures between 75 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit optimize fence lizard thermoregulation, with the reptiles basking on sun-exposed surfaces to reach their preferred body temperature range.

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4. 05

   Fence lizards possess blue patches on their belly and inner thighs that intensify in color during the breeding season to signal reproductive fitness to potential mates.

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5. 04

   During mating season, female eastern fence lizards lay 6 to 12 elongated eggs in shallow underground burrows that incubate for approximately 50 to 65 days before hatchlings emerge.

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6. 03

   Spiny dorsal crests along the fence lizard's back contain approximately 20 to 30 sharp scales that serve as defense against predators and rivals.

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7. 02

   Eastern fence lizards can change their skin color from gray to brown within minutes by adjusting pigment cells in response to temperature and social stress.

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8. 01

   Males of the eastern fence lizard species perform 20 to 30 pushups daily to establish dominance and attract mates during breeding season.

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