There are native lizards in Pennsylvania, though they are relatively uncommon compared to states further south. Pennsylvania sits near the northern boundary of the range for many lizard species, meaning their populations are often scattered and restricted to specific, warmer microclimates. The state is home to four native lizard species, three of which are skinks, which become progressively rarer toward the northern parts of the Commonwealth.
Native Lizard Species of Pennsylvania
The most frequently encountered lizard in the state is the Common Five-lined Skink (Plestiodon fasciatus), averaging between five and eight inches in total length. This skink is characterized by five light-colored stripes running longitudinally down a dark background, a pattern that tends to fade in older males. In contrast, the Broad-headed Skink (Plestiodon laticeps) is the largest lizard in Pennsylvania, with some adults reaching up to 12 inches long. Adult males develop a distinctly swollen, reddish-orange head during the breeding season, which gives the species its common name.
The third skink species is the Northern Coal Skink (Plestiodon anthracinus), which measures five to seven inches long and has a streamlined body. This skink is distinguished by four light stripes, two on each side, bordering a broad, dark lateral band that runs from the neck to the tail. Unlike the other two skinks, the Coal Skink lacks a stripe running down the center of its back. All three skink species share a striking commonality: the bright blue tail found on juveniles, a feature thought to distract predators.
Pennsylvania’s fourth native lizard is the Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus), a member of the spiny lizard family that grows to a length of four to seven inches. This species has rough, pointed scales that feel jagged to the touch, unlike the smooth, glossy scales of the skinks. Males display distinctive blue patches on their throat and belly, which they flash during breeding displays, often while performing “push-up” motions on logs or rocks.
Geographic Distribution and Preferred Habitats
The distribution of Pennsylvania’s lizards is heavily influenced by the northern climate, restricting most populations to the southern two-thirds of the state. The Broad-headed Skink is the most geographically restricted, found almost exclusively in the southeastern corner of the state where temperatures are warmest. This species is highly arboreal, particularly favoring open woodlands with plenty of decaying wood and large, standing snags.
The Common Five-lined Skink is more widespread, occurring throughout much of the state south of a line running from Crawford County in the northwest to Bucks County in the southeast. It favors humid woodlands and wooded edges where it can bask on sun-exposed rocks, logs, or stumps.
The Northern Coal Skink has the most fragmented range, found in small, scattered populations primarily in northcentral, northwestern, and southwestern Pennsylvania. This secretive skink prefers moist, damp woodlands near streams, often sheltering under loose stones, leaf litter, or on rocky hillsides.
Distinguishing Lizards from Other PA Wildlife
Lizards are often confused with other small, slender creatures in Pennsylvania, most commonly with salamanders or small snakes. A key difference lies in the skin texture: lizards are reptiles covered in dry, keratinized scales that give them a rough or shiny appearance. Salamanders, which are amphibians, have smooth, moist skin. Lizards also possess external ear openings and have claws on their toes, features that salamanders completely lack.
When differentiating a lizard from a snake, the presence of eyelids is the clearest indicator. Lizards have movable eyelids and can blink, while snakes have fused, transparent scales covering their eyes, preventing them from blinking. Additionally, all Pennsylvania lizards have four fully developed limbs, which immediately distinguishes them from any native snake species. The ability of skinks to intentionally shed their tail as a defense mechanism is another trait not shared by the state’s amphibians or snakes.