The Brown Anole (Anolis sagrei) is a small, highly adaptable lizard that has established itself as an invasive species across many regions of the Southeastern United States and the Caribbean. Originally native to Cuba and the Bahamas, its rapid spread often results in high population densities around human dwellings. This presence can lead to concerns about property management, especially when the reptiles begin to enter homes or displace native wildlife. Implementing effective management strategies requires a multi-step approach focused on correct identification, habitat modification, and physical removal.
Confirming You Have Brown Anoles
Before beginning any removal process, accurately identify the species of lizard present, especially where the native Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis) also resides. The Brown Anole is typically a stocky, grayish-brown lizard that can lighten or darken its shade, but it cannot turn bright green. Males often feature a noticeable, jagged dorsal crest and display a reddish-orange dewlap (throat fan) to establish territory.
The native Green Anole is a slender lizard with a longer, more pointed snout, often appearing uniform bright green when relaxed, though it can change to brown when stressed. The invasive Brown Anole is known to compete aggressively for resources and prey on the juveniles of the native species. Correct identification ensures that removal efforts target the invasive population.
Making Your Property Unattractive
The most sustainable method for controlling the Brown Anole population is to eliminate the resources that initially attracted them to your property. Since these lizards are insectivores, reducing the local insect population is a primary step in making the area less hospitable. Regularly treating the foundation and surrounding landscape with appropriate insecticides significantly reduces their food supply, encouraging them to seek sustenance elsewhere.
Anoles are also attracted to areas offering abundant shelter and sources of water. Eliminate debris piles, such as stacked firewood, loose bricks, or overgrown vegetation, which serve as preferred hiding and basking spots. Minimizing standing water from leaky faucets or excessive lawn watering reduces overall humidity and limits their access to hydration.
Natural deterrents can target the anole’s heightened sense of smell to make certain areas undesirable. Essential oils, such as peppermint or cinnamon oil, can be mixed with water and sprayed in non-washable areas like window sills or patio furniture. The concentrated smell is irritating to the lizards, prompting them to move away from the treated space.
Physical Removal and Exclusion Methods
While habitat modification works over time, exclusion and physical removal provide immediate solutions for reducing the existing population. To prevent anoles from entering structures, all potential entry points must be sealed, as they can squeeze through very small gaps. Ensure that all windows and doors have tight-fitting weather stripping and that screens are intact without tears or holes.
Seal any gaps around utility lines, pipes, or vents with caulk or expanding foam to block access into wall voids or attics. For areas like porches or decks, physical barriers such as Teflon-sided fences are effective, as the slippery surface prevents the lizards from climbing over the barrier.
For direct removal, glue traps designed for cockroaches or rodents can be placed along baseboards, under furniture, or near known entry points. These traps use pheromones to attract the lizards and can significantly reduce local densities. If non-target species are caught, vegetable oil can be used to safely release them from the adhesive, requiring careful placement.
Manual capture is often necessary for removing individuals already inside a dwelling. Anoles can be temporarily slowed down by spraying them with a fine mist of water, which briefly impedes their movement. Once slowed, capture them by placing a cup or container over them and sliding a stiff piece of paper underneath for relocation.
Maintaining a Lizard-Free Environment
Long-term success in managing Brown Anole populations relies on consistently applying deterrence and exclusion strategies. Exclusion points, such as weather stripping and caulk seals, should be monitored seasonally for signs of wear or new gaps that could allow re-entry. Regular trimming of shrubs and removal of debris prevents the rapid re-establishment of food and shelter sources.
Although natural predators, such as birds and domestic animals, will prey on anoles, relying on them is not a controlled method for population reduction. Traps require safety considerations, ensuring they are placed out of reach of children and household pets. Sustained vigilance and routine upkeep of the property are necessary to prevent the lizards from returning.