Lizards - Nature's Pest Control

Today is a very special day for us here on the Gulf Coast of Florida: World Lizard Day. After all, do you really live in Southwest Florida if you don’t have a lizard or three sneaking into your house? 

The good news is that of all the creatures who could invade your home, the lizard is one of the best. They don’t bite or carry disease, and, as insect eaters, they are natural pest control technicians. Okay, not as qualified as the men and women we have at Good News Pest Solutions, but they’ll chow down on a half dozen insects a day from 25 different species or more. Many of these, like flies and cockroaches, carry diseases that the lizard could be protecting you from. 

Florida in particular is the unofficial gateway to invasive lizard species. We have about 30 that are here to stay, helped by the mild climate and abundant rainfall. But thanks to a thriving exotic pet trade and numerous international ports of entry, both by sea and by air, we’re always finding new ones. The University of Florida estimates there have been sightings of more than 150 non-native reptiles in the Sunshine State. 

If it’s in your house and not in a fishtank or aquarium, it’s probably a brown anole lizard. These originated in Cuba but were accidentally brought here in the 1800’s and have now all but taken over the wild areas in and around our incorporated communities.

Scaly Surprises

There are some 12-thousand species of lizards. They are hugely adaptable and biodiverse, which allows them to live everywhere across the planet, except Antarctica -it’s just too cold there year-round. 

Lizards are ectothermic, or cold-blooded. That’s why you see so many of them sprawled out in the sun. Many also have the ability to regenerate tails and limbs. This works as a defense mechanism, allowing them to “break off” a body part when captured in order to escape. Many can also camouflage themselves by changing color. 

Lizards are easily the most diverse group of modern reptiles. They vary in body type, shape, and size, with some similar characteristics that place them in the suborder Sauria. They are distinguishable from snakes in that they possess legs, movable eyelids, and external ear openings. But not all lizards have all three of those characteristics either. 

Contrary to what some might think, crocodiles and alligators are not just giant lizards. They vary in significant ways. Two big factors are the size and shape of their scales. And, of course, gators are larger than even the largest lizard. Crocodiles have a four chambered heart, like humans. Lizards only have three chambers. Lizards can extend their tongues, while alligators cannot. Scientists say while both are reptiles, crocodiles are more closely related, from an evolutionary perspective, to birds. 

In the United States, most lizards are either pets or running around in the wild. Some are used to make clothing or accessories, although that practice has diminished significantly over the years. In other parts of the world lizards are commonly eaten and are a good source of protein.

World Lizard Day

Every year on August 14, schools, parks and reptile lovers raise awareness about lizards and promote their conservation on World Lizard Day. Lizards of all sizes play a crucial role in our local and global ecosystems. 

You can celebrate World Lizard Day by getting your own pet lizard or donating to conservation efforts or going to visit the reptile exhibit at Sarasota Jungle Gardens. We also have Repticon coming to Bradenton at the end of the month. Unfortunately, the oldest and most popular reptile park and research facility, started by Ross Allen, closed a few years back. 

If you’re too creeped out by having lizards in your house, or find they’re just not handling all your pest control needs, give us a call! Our most popular solution - Go Green Perimeter Plus - handles all the typical creepy crawlies we see in Florida. It’s affordable and safe for your whole family, including pets. You can connect with one of our highly trained technicians here.