Lizard Facts
There are about 3,000 species of lizards found all over the world. In North America. Florida alone is home to 29 different species. The state’s most common species is the brown anole, a species accidentally introduced from the West Indies in the 1880s. It has become a threat to Florida’s only native lizard species, the green anole.
Lizard species range from the tiny gecko, sizing up at 3/4 inch, to the Komodo dragon, which can grow up to be 10 feet long. In Florida, there are native and non-native lizard species. The non-native species were introduced via commercial trade and were kept as pets. Some escaped and others were purposely let loose into the wild.
All lizards are cold-blooded, scaly, and have great vision. Most have four legs, clawed feet, and a long, weak tail that can fall off at the slightest tug. The most common species in the U.S. include iguanas, monitors, geckos, and horned lizards. The bigger the lizard, the bigger its food. Smaller lizards, like geckos, chameleons, and anoles will mostly eat flies and crickets. They will feed on snails, spiders, and caterpillars under certain conditions. The Komodo dragon is especially predatory, having hunted deer, pigs, and, occasionally, humans. Some lizards, like iguanas, are herbivores, and will eat only leaves, fruits, and berries. Since lizards come from all over the world, knowing what kind of lizard you’re dealing with is important so you can understand it’s dietary habits to eventually rid your yard of them. It is possible for lizards to carry diseases. Most commonly, they can carry salmonella, a bacteria that causes food poisoning. Even if a lizard appears healthy and clean, germs can still be found on their skin, causing diarrhea, vomiting, headache, and fever.
Lizard Damage
In the U.S. lizards are mainly bothersome in Florida. The green iguana and Nile monitor are of particular concern in this state. Both lizards can grow up to seven feet long and possess sharp teeth and bad temperaments. Iguanas can damage vegetation as they feed on most types of greenery. Vegetable and flower gardens are at risk. The Nile monitor is carnivorous and has been known to ravage farms with livestock. Nile monitors eat chickens and other small mammals, including house pets. It’s not uncommon for these lizards to bite or scratch people if they feel attacked or threatened, so don’t attempt to manhandle them.
Types of Lizards
Lizard Identification
There are many different species of lizards, but for the most part they have similar body structures. They are most closely related to reptiles of the dinosaur era. They have a small head, short neck, and a much longer body and tail. Some species’ tails are so delicate they can be ripped off with a simple tug. The green anole is about five to eight inches long. Much like geckos, they have an adhesive on their feet called lamellae to help them crawl up walls and trees. Their color varies based on their mood, health, or body temperature. Though unrelated to chameleons, they are often referred to as the American chameleon. The green iguana is also big problem in Southern states like Florida. These creatures can pack a big punch. Green iguanas can weigh up to 18 pounds and grow 7 feet long. Their long bodies are covered in leathery scales.
Lizards in the Yard & Garden
Lizards are particularly fond of warm environments. You’ll find them in deserts, forests, prairies, marshes, and in rocky areas. They are most active during the day, particularly in the summer. You’ll find them either running along on the ground or scampering around in trees. Lizards are attracted to areas where insects like spiders and snails roam. On particularly warm days, you’ll find them in cooler areas like inside hollow logs or under piles of brush. Any areas that can create homes for lizards, like piles of concrete, bricks, or stones, will attract lizards. These sites are where they will commonly make their nests. Thick grasses and shrubbery offer protection to lizards when they are on the hunt for food. Areas with lots of different plants will also attract the bugs and insects lizards like to eat. You may find their molten skins in various places around your yard. Some species swim, so finding them in ponds or pools is not uncommon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep lizards away?
Getting rid of thick vegetation will help remove shelters used by lizards around your property. This means keeping grass cut short and pruning your shrubs regularly. If they’re getting into your trees, wrapping sheet metal around them and leaving about 18 to 20 inches between the metal and the tree will deter them from climbing.
Electric fencing around similar problem areas may also help. Scare tactics are effective, too. Spraying them with a garden hose, making loud noises, and dangling shiny objects like CDs around your property may frighten them away. If these sun-loving reptiles just won’t leave, contacting a pest professional may be your best option, as they will have access to a wider variety of control methods.
What are the benefits of professional lizard pest control?
Any type of wildlife nuisance or pest can be risky to remove safely without the proper equipment or experience.
Professional pest control specialists have the technology, educational background, and skill to safely but effectively remove the animal or critter while also protecting everyone on the property.
If you’re struggling with lizards on your property, contact us. Our technicians can remove them and help you regain control of your property and sanity.