Meet the eastern fence lizard: The remarkable reptile that does push-ups, flashes bright blue and escapes by running around trees

Most reptiles rely on camouflage or speed to survive. The eastern fence lizard has developed something more unusual. It performs push-ups to warn rivals away from its territory. When danger appears, it races around tree trunks to stay out of a predator's sight. Males even flash bright blue patches across their throats and bellies during territorial displays. Found across much of the eastern United States, this small spiny reptile spends its days basking in the sun, hunting insects and defending its patch of woodland. Despite its modest size, the eastern fence lizard has evolved a collection of remarkable behaviours that help it survive in forests, grasslands and suburban landscapes.