The presence of small, wild lizards near or inside a residence often prompts a divided reaction. These reptiles, such as geckos and anoles, are commonly found in residential environments, especially in warmer climates, interacting closely with human structures. Understanding this relationship involves weighing the ecological benefits they provide against potential domestic inconveniences. This analysis explores the specific roles these small reptiles play in a home ecosystem, detailing both their usefulness and their drawbacks.
The Primary Role as Natural Pest Control
The primary benefit of having lizards around the house stems from their diet, making them highly effective biological control agents. These small, agile hunters consume a wide array of insects and arthropods considered pests. Lizards actively patrol walls, ceilings, and foliage, preying on creatures like flies, moths, crickets, and small cockroaches. The common house gecko is nocturnal and frequently seen near outdoor lights where insects congregate, minimizing the number of flying pests entering the home. Anoles are diurnal, focusing on daytime targets, including spiders and other small invertebrates found on plants and fences. By consistently reducing local pest populations, lizards offer an organic alternative to chemical insecticides.
Health and Hygiene Considerations
While their appetite for insects is beneficial, the presence of lizards introduces specific hygiene and health concerns related to their waste. Lizard droppings, or guano, are a common nuisance, characterized by a dark, solid portion and a distinct white tip of crystallized uric acid. These small deposits accumulate on walls, window sills, and floors, creating an aesthetic issue and requiring regular cleanup. Reptile feces are known to carry Salmonella bacteria, which poses a low but present risk of transmission to humans. Infection typically occurs if the bacteria are accidentally ingested through contact with contaminated surfaces or dry, airborne droppings. This risk is highest for young children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.
Distinguishing Common House Guests
Identifying the specific type of lizard found near a home is helpful, as their habits dictate where they are most likely to be encountered. The Mediterranean House Gecko is a pale, translucent, nocturnal lizard known for its large eyes and its ability to climb smooth vertical surfaces, often seen hunting near porch lights. Anoles, such as the Brown or Green Anole, are active during the day and commonly found on fences, shrubs, and exterior walls. The Green Anole can change its color from bright green to brown and is often seen perching higher up. The Brown Anole tends to stay closer to the ground. Small skinks, characterized by sleek, shiny scales and often short legs, are typically ground-dwelling, hiding among leaf litter and foundation debris.
How to Manage Their Presence
Homeowners can encourage or deter lizards by making targeted adjustments to the immediate environment, controlling their access and food sources. To attract lizards for pest control, maintaining outdoor lighting near the home at night will draw in the insects they feed on, providing a consistent food supply. Leaving areas of dense ground cover or foliage can also offer the necessary shelter and basking spots. If the goal is to deter them, the most effective strategy is to eliminate entry points and hiding places. Sealing small cracks around windows, doors, and utility lines prevents entry into the structure. Removing debris, woodpiles, or standing water near the foundation reduces available shelter, making the area less appealing.