Common reptiles of Southern California

	Western Fence Lizard-(Sceloporus occidentalis) Often referred to as a blue-belly lizard, because of the blue coloring on the sides of it's belly. The adult male has the blue coloring on its throat as well. The Fence Lizard is the most common lizard in this area. It is often seen sunning itself on rocks and fence posts. Fence Lizards are also know for their curious head bobbing, a way of attracting females and driving off male intruders.
	Western Skink-(Eumeces skiltonianus) Certainly not as common as the Fence Lizard, but it does in habit Southern California. The blue coloring on the tail signifies a juvenile of the species. Usually found under rocks and logs, their habitat is typically open woodland areas. Although, there is a thriving Skink population at Crystal Cove State Park, right along the coast, here in Southern California.
No photo yet	Southern Pacific Rattlesnake-(Crotalus viridis) This rattler's color is a variety of light and dark brownish-black markings. The diamond-like blotches are not always the most visible feature on this deadly, venomous reptile. But like the Red Diamond Rattlesnake it carries that unmistakable rattle at the end of its tail.
No photo yet	Red Diamond Rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber) This is an extremely beautiful and large rattlesnake, often reaching over 5 feet in length. It's coloring is a tan to brick red with distinct black and white striping just before the rattle. Also known as the Mexican Red, this snake can live for over 10 years!
No photo yet	Gopher Snake-(Pituophis melanoleucus) This is a very common snake in Southern California. Light in color, with brown, black, and red blotches on back and sides. In an attempt to mimic the rattlesnak, it has the ability to hiss and vibrate it's tail while flattening itís head.
No photo yet	Common Kingsnake-(Lampropeltis getulus) A brownish-black colored snake with large, pale yellow crossbands running the length of its body. A strong constrictor, it eats mice, lizards, eggs and other snakes, including rattlesnakes! Though the Common Kingsnake is not poisonous, it does have a way of defending itself. If picked up, a wild snake will secrete musk from its glands. In effect, making the snake an undesirable pet.
	Alligator Lizard-(Gerrhonotus multicarintus) Common in Oregon and California this lizard can reach a length of 17 inches! It's coloring varies from a reddish brown to a yellowish gray. This big lizard is known for his bad temper. When handled roughly they have been known to bite and defecate.

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Links of Interest

California State Parks Official Homepage canyonlife.com Get the latest canyon info County of Orange Official Homepage Endangered Species Dept. of Fish & Game

O'Neill Regional Park Trabuco Canyon's own Check the Freeways of Southern California California Official State Homepage California Dept. of Fish & Game

Bobcat Internet photos here! Mountain Lion Internet photos here! Acorn Naturalist Online Shopping Yellow Jackets Learn More

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