How do male Northern Fence Lizards establish territory?

Male Northern Fence Lizards establish territory primarily through physical displays. During the breeding season, males engage in various posturing behaviors to demonstrate their strength and assert dominance over their territory. These displays may include push-ups, which serve to make the lizard appear larger, as well as head bobbing and other movements that can deter rivals and attract females.

Physical displays are important for communication among lizards, as they rely heavily on visual signals rather than relying on scent or sound. This behavior not only asserts territorial claims but also helps to avoid physical confrontations, as the displays can be enough to convey dominance without the need for more aggressive interactions.

While scent marking, vocalizations, and any written boundary lines may play roles in the territorial behaviors of other species, they are not the primary means by which male Northern Fence Lizards establish and maintain their territories.