What is the preferred habitat of Northern Fence Lizards?

Northern Fence Lizards thrive in habitats that offer ample opportunities for basking and hiding from predators, making the selection of rotting logs, rock outcrops, tree stumps, and fences particularly suitable. These environments provide a mix of sun exposure for warmth and places to retreat, which are essential for their survival.

The presence of fences is particularly significant as these structures often mimic the lizard's natural habitats, offering perches and safe places to seek shelter. These lizards are very adaptable and prefer areas with a mosaic of open and partially wooded landscapes where they can utilize various surfaces to hunt insects and evade threats.

Other habitat options listed, such as open fields and grasslands, while potentially suitable, lack the necessary cover and microhabitats that are vital for the lizards’ activities. Dense canopy forests would restrict sunlight access and reduce basking opportunities, making them less ideal. Wetlands and marshes typically do not align with the dry, elevated basking spots that Northern Fence Lizards favor.