Species of Lizards Found in Alabama

Anoles

• The green anole, sometimes referred to as a chameleon, is found throughout Alabama. Another species, the brown anole, is an exotic lizard of Caribbean origin that has been reported in the southern region of the state.

Geckos

• Urban-dwelling geckos feed on the ample insect population that permeates Alabama. Both the Mediterranean house gecko and the exotic Indo-Pacific gecko are found in the southern portion of the state, feeding on nocturnal insects.

Glass Lizards

• Though they closely resemble snakes, Alabama's three native species of glass lizards are distinguished by their eyelids, ear holes and lateral grooves. The Eastern glass lizard, mimic glass lizard and slender glass lizard are considered to be conservation concerns, though they may still be found among the state's plains regions.

Racerunners

• Racerunners are fast-moving lizards typically found in open, dry habitats. The species has a higher population density throughout the southern portion of the state, where higher temperatures prevail. Racerunners are ground dwellers that burrow for shelter from predators and cool weather.

Skinks

• A diverse group of lizards that usually feeds on insects and arthropods, skinks are found throughout Alabama. Some, like the common five-lined skink and the broad-headed skink, are abundant in numbers. The ground skink makes its home throughout the state, though this species' population has experienced a significant decline since the 1980s. Less common skink species include the Southeastern five-lined skink, the Northern Mole skink and the Coal skink.

Spiny Lizards

• The Eastern fence lizard is common throughout Alabama, residing in rocky regions and dry, open areas. This species resides in trees and will run towards arboreal protection when approached. Usually gray or brown in color, males display patches of bright blue coloring on their undersides during mating season. The exotic Texas horned lizard, sometimes referred to as a "horny toad," is found in sandy areas such as the state's coastal region. Texas horned lizards enjoy a diet comprised almost exclusively of ants, and can be found near ant piles within their preferred habitats.