Earlier this month when I shared male Eastern Collared Lizard images, I said I’d also share some photos of the females. I’m doing that today before I forget.
Female Eastern Collared Lizard on a lichen covered boulder – Canon R7, handheld, f11, 1/1250, ISO 500, -0.3 EV, Canon RF 800mm, natural light
The female Eastern Collared Lizards are duller, with tan or brown coloration. To my eye, they’re still interesting looking lizards. I enjoyed having them in my viewfinder just as much as the more colorful males.
Female Eastern Collared Lizard close up – Canon R7, handheld, f11, 1/1000, ISO 1250, Canon RF 800mm, natural light
I must admit, the female collared lizards were a bit more challenging to spot than the males. They sure blend into the rocky habitat these lizards prefer much better.
I’m very glad we found both sexes to focus on while visiting Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.
Eastern Collared Lizard female on a lichen covered rock – Canon R7, handheld, f11, 1/2500, ISO 1250, -0.3 EV, Canon RF 800mm, natural light
Female Eastern Collared Lizards lay 4 to 11 eggs in burrows or under rocks during late spring to early summer. They may lay one or two clutches per year.
Once the eggs are deposited, the female covers them with soil or sand to help protect them from predators and the elements.
The young hatch after about 6 to 8 weeks. Neither the female nor the male stays with the eggs, guards the nest, or assists the hatchlings in any way.
Eastern Collared Lizard male back view – Canon R7, handheld, f11, 1/1000, ISO 500, Canon RF 800mm, natural light
I’m sharing just this one photo of a male Eastern Collared Lizard today for comparison. The males are brightly colored.
The beauty of the females of this species is much more subtle.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Eastern Collared Lizard photos plus facts and information about this species.
Hi Mia,
Always enjoyed your beautiful photos. For some reason, your photos always looked vertically elongated on my screen. Thank you for sharing !
Hi Mia,
Always enjoyed your beautiful photos. For some reason, your photos always looked vertically elongated on my screen. Thank you for sharing !
EXCELLENT camouflage.
You always seem to come up with an image that knocks my socks off. All of these shots are terrific, but the one that really popped for me is the 2nd pic. The position of the lizard, the marvelous eye-contact and the detail…simply incredible! Thanks Mia.
She is lovely and the lichens are stunning as well.
I love the last one!