Species Reptiles & AmphibiansSouthern Alligator Lizard

Southern Alligator Lizard

Elgaria multicarinata

CommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata)

The Southern Alligator Lizard is a common lizard of the Pacific Coast with heavily keeled scales and a long tail. It readily bites when handled. Its flexible body folds allow it to squeeze into tight spaces.

Habitat
Chaparral, grassland edges, and oak woodland
Diet
Insects, slugs, small lizards, and mice
How common
Common

Best time to see a Southern Alligator Lizard

The best time to see a Southern Alligator Lizard is March–June, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 39,157 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Southern Alligator Lizard sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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