Lizards are a common sight on many porches, particularly in warmer climates, drawn to the area for shelter and sustenance. While these reptiles are generally harmless and assist with natural insect control, their presence on outdoor living spaces can become a nuisance. The goal is to encourage a humane relocation by making your porch less hospitable to them. This involves a multi-step approach that focuses on environmental control, structural adjustments, and the introduction of non-harmful repellents.
Removing the Main Attractions
The first and most effective strategy involves eliminating the resources that attract lizards: food, water, and shelter. Lizards are insectivores, primarily preying on small invertebrates like ants, spiders, beetles, and flies. A thriving insect population on or near your porch essentially acts as a buffet, drawing in hungry reptiles.
Minimize the insects that are drawn to light sources at night. Switching from standard white bulbs to yellow or amber-colored “bug lights” on the porch reduces the number of flying insects, limiting the lizards’ food supply. Control underlying pest issues, such as ant trails or roach infestations in surrounding areas, to cut off the primary food chain. Lizards also require water, so remove any standing water sources, such as uncovered pet water bowls, clogged gutters, or decorative birdbaths adjacent to the porch.
Physical Exclusion and Habitat Modification
Once you have addressed their basic needs, the next step is to modify the physical environment to remove their hiding and basking spots. Lizards seek out secluded areas to regulate their body temperature. Inspect the porch structure itself for potential entry points.
Use caulk or weather stripping to seal small cracks, crevices, and gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation. Lizards can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, so a thorough inspection is necessary to eliminate access. Clear the immediate vicinity of the porch of clutter, as piles of firewood, stacked planters, or old furniture provide cover. Additionally, trim back any dense ground cover, vines, or overgrown shrubs that touch the porch surface to remove sheltered travel routes and basking areas.
Applying Active Deterrents
The final technique involves applying specific non-lethal substances that lizards find offensive to establish a sensory barrier. Lizards rely on their sense of smell, utilizing a specialized organ to detect chemical cues in their environment. Introducing strong, unpleasant scents can effectively make an area undesirable for them.
One highly effective method is a spicy spray mixture, as capsaicin is a powerful irritant to their sensitive membranes. A simple solution of water mixed with cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce can be sprayed along the perimeter of the porch and near known hiding spots. Strong-smelling essential oils, such as peppermint or eucalyptus, are also noted for their repellent properties when diluted with water and sprayed.
If using any commercial or homemade deterrent, exercise caution and ensure the product is safe for use around pets and children, as essential oils or spicy ingredients can cause irritation upon contact. Consistent reapplication of these active deterrents is necessary, especially after rain or cleaning, to maintain the barrier.