1. Black-bellied Tree Lizard
- Scientific Name: Eutropis multifasciata
- Native Range: Southeast Asia
- Size: 4-8 inches
- Diet: Insects, fruits, small vertebrates
2. Green Anole
- Scientific Name: Anolis carolinensis
- Native Range: Southeastern United States, Caribbean
- Size: 5-7 inches
- Diet: Insects, spiders, lizards
3. House Gecko
- Scientific Name: Hemidactylus frenatus
- Native Range: Southern Asia
- Size: 3-5 inches
- Diet: Insects, spiders, moths
4. Brown Anole
- Scientific Name: Anolis sagrei
- Native Range: Cuba, Bahamas
- Size: 6-10 inches
- Diet: Insects, spiders, fruits
5. Mediterranean House Gecko
- Scientific Name: Hemidactylus turcicus
- Native Range: Mediterranean region
- Size: 2-4 inches
- Diet: Insects, spiders, small lizards
6. Common House Gecko
- Scientific Name: Hemidactylus mabouya
- Native Range: Africa
- Size: 3-5 inches
- Diet: Insects, spiders, moths
Eradication Strategies
1. Seal Entry Points
- Inspect your home for cracks, holes, and gaps around windows, doors, pipes, and vents.
- Seal these openings with caulk, weatherstripping, or expanding foam.
2. Remove Food Sources
- Keep your home clean and free of insect infestations.
- Store pet food and other potential lizard attractants in sealed containers.
3. Utilize Traps
- Place sticky traps in areas where you have seen lizards or suspect they may be entering.
- Glue traps or snap traps can effectively capture lizards as well.
4. Use Repellents
- Essential oils such as peppermint, cinnamon, and eucalyptus can repel lizards with their strong scents.
- Diffuse these oils in your home or apply them to cotton balls and place them near entry points.
5. Consider Predators
- Cats are natural predators of lizards and their presence can deter them from entering your home.
- However, some cats may pose a risk to lizards, so introduce them cautiously.
Tips and Tricks
- If you catch a lizard, release it outside immediately.
- Avoid using chemical sprays or poisons, as they can be harmful to your family and pets.
- Keep your home well-lit, as lizards prefer dark and secluded areas.
- Check your house regularly for signs of lizards, such as droppings or shed skin.
Pros and Cons of Common Removal Methods
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Traps | Effective at capturing lizards | Can be time-consuming and require frequent checking |
| Repellents | Non-lethal and can prevent re-entry | May not be effective on all lizards |
| Predators | Can eliminate lizards but require care and supervision | Cats may pose a risk to lizards |
| Chemical Sprays | Quick and convenient | Can be harmful to humans and pets |
FAQs
1. Are house lizards dangerous?
- No, house lizards are not dangerous to humans or pets.
2. Why do I have lizards in my house?
- Lizards may enter your home seeking food, shelter, or warmth.
3. How can I prevent lizards from entering my home?
- Seal entry points, remove food sources, and use repellents.
4. What should I do if I find a lizard in my house?
- Remain calm and catch the lizard using a trap or a towel. Release it outside immediately.
5. Are house lizards a sign of poor hygiene?
- No, house lizards are not necessarily a sign of poor hygiene. They may enter even clean homes.
6. Are all house lizards protected by law?
- Some species of lizards, such as the green anole, are protected in certain regions. Check local laws before removing them.
