Florida is famous for its sunshine, beaches, and abundant wildlife. Among the most common sights crawling around patios, climbing trees, or basking in the heat are lizards. But as their presence becomes more noticeable, especially in urban areas, many people wonder: Are Florida lizards poisonous? Are they dangerous to pets or humans? And if you’re dealing with a lizard infestation, what should you know before calling wildlife control?
Let’s dive into what’s fact, what’s myth, and what’s crawling around your backyard.
Are Florida Lizards Poisonous or Venomous?
Here’s the short answer: Most lizards in Florida are neither poisonous nor venomous to humans.
But let’s break that down a bit. A poisonous animal releases toxins when you touch or eat it. A venomous animal, on the other hand, injects toxins through bites or stings.
In Florida, there are no native lizard species that are venomous or poisonous to humans. That said, some can bite, scratch, or carry bacteria that may cause infections.
Lizards in Florida: Who’s Who in Florida’s Reptilian Roster
Florida is home to several species of native and invasive lizards. Some are harmless. Others are aggressive nuisances that disrupt the ecosystem—or your backyard.
1. Brown Anole (Anolis sagrei)
The brown anole is common in Florida. Some characteristics include:
- Status: Invasive
- Appearance: Brown with a light stripe; males have a red throat fan (dewlap).
- Threat: Harmless to humans.
- Interesting Fact: Outcompeting the native green anole in many areas.
2. Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
While green anoles are native, they have become less common than brown ones. Ley characteristics include:
- Status: Native
- Appearance: Bright green; changes color to brown under stress.
- Threat: Harmless.
- Fun Fact: These are the only anoles native to the southeastern U.S.
3. Knight Anole (Anolis equestris)
Knight anoles are less common than other types; however, they can cause some harm. The main characteristics of these lizards include:
- Status: Invasive from Cuba
- Appearance: Bright green with a yellow stripe.
- Threat: Can bite with sharp teeth and claws if provoked.
- Danger? Not venomous, but a bite can cause bleeding or mild infection.
4. Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)
It’s possible to find green iguanas in Florida due to the pet trade. Their key characteristics include:
- Status: Invasive
- Size: Up to 5–6 feet long
- Threat: Aggressive when cornered, known to whip with tails or bite.
- Danger? Not venomous but capable of transmitting Salmonella through feces.
5. Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko)
You can find tokay geckos in Florida. They are not a native species. Key characteristics include:
- Status: Non-native
- Known for: Loud call, aggressive bites.
- Danger? Bites are painful, but not venomous.
6. Nile Monitor (Varanus niloticus)
While less common, it is possible to spot a Nile monitor while you are in Florida. They are an invasive species that can pack a huge punch. Key characteristics include:
- Status: Invasive from Africa
- Threat Level: HIGH
- Features: Sharp claws, sharp teeth, and a powerful tail.
- Danger? Can be aggressive, and while not classified as venomous in the traditional sense, their saliva contains bacteria and enzymes that can lead to infection. Avoid them at all costs.
7. Tegus (Salvator merianae)
Tegus are invasive in Florida. They have black and white spots or stripes with varying amounts of other colors. Their common characteristics include:
- Status: Invasive from South America
- Threat: Will bite and scratch; can become aggressive if threatened.
- Danger? Non-venomous, but can cause injury and harbor bacteria.
What About the Gila Monster and Beaded Lizard?
You may have heard of the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum) and the beaded lizard (Heloderma horridum)—two well-known venomous lizards. But here’s the catch:
They don’t live in Florida.
These reptiles are found in the southwestern U.S. and Mexico, particularly in New Mexico, Arizona, and parts of Mexico. So while they’re important in lizard lore, they don’t pose a threat in South Florida or anywhere else in the state.
Do Lizard Bites Pose a Health Risk?
Most lizard bites in Florida are minor. However, they can still:
- Cause bleeding
- Lead to mild bacterial infections
- Transmit salmonella (especially from iguanas and geckos)
Signs of an infection after a lizard bite include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pus
- Fever
If bitten, wash the area thoroughly and monitor for signs of infection. Medical attention may be necessary for deeper bites or signs of bacterial transmission.
Are Lizards a Danger to Pets or Children?
Generally, lizards are shy and try to escape human contact. They’re more of a nuisance than a danger. But here are a few exceptions:
- Cats and dogs might catch and eat lizards, which can expose them to bacteria or parasites.
- Children may pick up or provoke lizards, risking bites or exposure to Salmonella.
If you have lizards all over your yard or home, you might be wondering how to get rid of them. At Nuisance Wildlife Rangers, we offer humane lizard control so you can keep your family safe without harming animals in the process.
The Real Problem: Invasive Lizards Disrupting Florida Ecosystems
While most lizards don’t harm humans, many are harmful to Florida’s environment.
Invasive species like:
- Green iguanas
- Nile monitors
- Tegus
- Brown anoles
… are displacing native species, damaging infrastructure, and even preying on native birds, fish, and mammals. For instance, Nile monitors have been known to eat small turtles, snakes, and eggs from native nesting sites.
These reptiles thrive in Florida’s warm climate and multiply quickly, leading to overpopulation in certain areas.
How to Control Lizard Populations Around Your Home
If you’re noticing more lizards than usual around your property, you’re not alone. Lizards are a common sight in Florida, especially in South Florida, where the climate and vegetation support rapid population growth.
Here’s how to keep lizards out of your home and yard:
- Seal entry points in your home (windows, doors, roof gaps).
- Remove food sources like insects and ants—what lizards love to eat.
- Trim vegetation—especially trees and shrubs touching the house.
- Limit water sources like bird baths or pet bowls.
- Use humane traps or call professional wildlife removal services.
Get Connected to Lizard Control in Florida
So, are Florida lizards poisonous? No. But some can be aggressive, carry bacteria, or cause environmental damage.
While most of these reptiles are interesting creatures and even helpful in eating insects, others, like iguanas, Nile monitors, and tegus, are a growing threat to Florida’s delicate ecosystems.
If you’re concerned about a lizard problem—whether it’s a nuisance around your yard or a full-blown infestation—it’s smart to call a licensed wildlife removal expert. Don’t attempt to catch large or aggressive lizards on your own. Between their sharp claws, sharp teeth, and high mobility, you could end up hurt—or worse, in a viral TikTok gone wrong.
Instead of DIYing lizard control, contact Nuisance Wildlife Rangers. We can trap and remove lizards without harming them in the process. Contact us today for more information on how to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can lizards cause structural damage to my property?
While lizards themselves don’t chew through materials like rodents, larger species—especially green iguanas—can dig extensive burrows. These tunnels may undermine foundations, sea walls, or sidewalks, leading to costly repairs. Iguanas have been linked to erosion along canal banks in South Florida.
2. Are lizards attracted to specific types of landscaping?
Yes. Lizards are particularly drawn to dense foliage, fruit-bearing plants, and mulch beds, which offer cover and attract the insects they feed on. Palms, hibiscus, and tropical ornamentals are common lizard-friendly choices in Florida yards.
3. Do lizards make noise?
Most lizards are silent, but a few species like the tokay gecko emit loud vocalizations—a distinct “tokay, tokay” sound—especially at night. These calls can be startling and are often mistaken for bird or frog noises.
4. Can I legally remove or relocate lizards myself in Florida?
For common species like green anoles or brown anoles, non-lethal removal is legal. However, for invasive or regulated species such as green iguanas, Nile monitors, and tegus, Florida law requires humane euthanasia if captured. It’s best to consult with or hire a licensed wildlife removal professional to ensure legal compliance and humane treatment.
5. What should I do if I find lizard eggs in my yard?
Lizard eggs are usually small, white, and soft-shelled, laid in soil, mulch, or hidden crevices. While native species pose no threat, invasive lizard eggs contribute to overpopulation. Avoid handling them directly. If you suspect they belong to an invasive species, contact your local wildlife control agency or pest management provider for next steps.
6. Do lizards in Florida hibernate or disappear seasonally?
Not exactly. Lizards in Florida slow down in colder months, especially in northern areas, but don’t fully hibernate. Instead, they enter a semi-dormant state called brumation. In South Florida, many remain active year-round due to the warm climate.
