fence lizard

American  

noun

1. either of two spiny lizards, Sceloporus undulatus and S. occidentalis, of the U.S. and northern Mexico, often seen on fences.

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Etymology

Origin of fence lizard

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70

Example Sentences

According to a leading dataset of animal and plant observations, the fence lizard is the most commonly spotted reptile in the U.S.; and the top species in California.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2025

If you happen to spot a fence lizard, look closely.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2025

The more fence lizard observations you have, the harder people are looking for things.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2025

In Los Angeles County, it was the Western fence lizard, followed by the western honey bee.

From New York Times • May 15, 2023

The fence lizard, a scaly alligator looking chap, is just as useful but never gets tame.

From How Girls Can Help Their Country by Low, Juliette Gordon