Belding’s orange-throated whiptail (Aspidoscelis hyperythrus ssp. beldingi) is a striking lizard subspecies that calls southern California and Baja California, Mexico home. I was in the right place at the right time today (and with a telephoto lens on) to witness multiple stages of mating behavior between these two. I also saw one that's regenerating its tail. They like foraging in the leaf litter under the plants that's putting nutrients back into the soil as it breaks down. I do maintain things a bit in that respect with fire safety in mind, but having a picture perfect garden in the traditional sense is at odds with my goal of creating habitat for wildlife. Sightings like this one often make my day.
southern California wildlife
