What Do California Lizards Eat?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 26, 2020

California lizards eat mostly ants, grasshoppers, spiders and beetles. They have a small row of teeth on each jaw and teeth on the roof of their mouths. Lizards snatch their food with long, sticky tongues, crush it in their jaws and swallow it with very little chewing.

The most common species of lizard in California is the western fence lizard. This lizard is 6 to 9 inches long and brown or black in color with blue markings on the sides of its belly. The western fence lizard frequently suns itself on rocks, fences and buildings, making it easy prey for snakes and birds. The lizard uses its quick reflexes and ability to throw off its tail to escape predators.