Southwestern fence lizard
A species of Spiny lizards, Also known as White sands prairie lizard Scientific name : Sceloporus cowlesi Genus : Spiny lizards
Southwestern fence lizard, A species of Spiny lizards
Also known as:
White sands prairie lizard
Scientific name: Sceloporus cowlesi
Genus: Spiny lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By leonardohe , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The southwestern fence lizard (Sceloporus cowlesi) also known as the White Sands prairie lizard or the White Sands swift is species of spiny lizard native to the Chihuahuan Desert of the southwest United States and north-central Mexico. Described in 1956 as Sceloporus undulatus cowlesi, subspecies of the eastern fence lizard, DNA studies elevated the southwestern fence lizard to species status.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Southwestern fence lizard predominantly feeds on small invertebrates, with a particular preference for dainty arachnids and skillfully obtained termites. Their diet also encompasses a variety of soft-bodied insects, ensuring a balanced nutritional intake.
Appearance
Southwestern fence lizard is a small, flattened lizard with rough, granular skin. It exhibits a distinct color pattern, primarily brown or grey with faint blue hues, often sporting a series of loosely connected dark blotches. Males boast blue patches on their throats and bellies. Although devoid of wings or horns, it features a long tail and strong limbs adapted for climbing.
Behavior
Southwestern fence lizard exhibits diurnal activity, particularly foraging for insects during warmer hours. This solitary species displays aggression through a series of push-ups and bobbing of the head during territorial disputes, notably males. Successfully adapting to desert environments, southwestern fence lizard exhibits thermoregulation through basking and seeking shade to maintain body temperature.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Spiny lizards Species
Southwestern fence lizard 
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