Northern Alligator Lizard

Elgaria coerulea (Gerrhonotus coeruleus)

In places where the Northern and Southern Alligator Lizards are both found, look for the Northern in the cooler locations like shady forests. Another important difference between these two species is that the Northern Alligator Lizard gives birth to live young, while the Southern Alligator Lizard is an egg layer. Always handle alligator lizards carefully; they have a tail that easily breaks off, and they also have strong enough jaws to give a serious bite.

Look For : A brown-eyed alligator lizard with faint irregular bands across back and tail and dark stripes on belly between rows of scales.

Length : 8-13".

Habitat : Woodlands and forest clearings.

Range : Southern British Columbia and northwestern U.S.