You may have never considered this, but attracting lizards to your garden can be beneficial. Like turtles and snakes, lizards are members of the reptile family. Although their physique is similar to salamanders, which are amphibians, lizards have dry scales while salamanders have moist skin.
There are more than 6,000 species of lizards worldwide, and native species of common garden lizards likely live near you. So why should today’s gardeners be interested in these scaly remains from the age of the dinosaurs, as opposed to getting rid of them , and how are lizards good for gardens? Let’s learn more.
Lizard Friendly Gardens
Firstly, many species of lizards eat garden pests such as slugs and harmful insects. More importantly, common garden lizards also serve as a barometer of environmental health. Since lizards are vulnerable to contaminants, their mere existence in the garden indicates low levels of pesticides and heavy metals. This ensures that garden-grown foods will also have low levels of these particles
How to attract lizards to the garden
In order for lizards to take up residence in the backyard, they need a suitable habitat. Creating the right environment is essential to creating lizard-friendly gardens. Start by learning what species of lizards are native to your area. Find out where they lay their eggs, what they eat, and what environmental elements they prefer. The following tips will help gardeners create a safe haven in their garden for lizards:
- Avoid using chemical pesticides . Instead, try natural pest control methods such as insecticidal soaps, companion plants, and natural predators.
- Avoid using herbicides, especially on lawns . Treat weed problems instead of using a blanket application of herbicide in the garden. Thatching, reseeding, and mowing at recommended heights creates a healthier lawn that will naturally prevent weed growth. Weeds in the garden can be dug or pulled by hand.
- Cover the garden . Not only does it deter weeds, but it also conserves moisture and creates a moist environment for lizards.
- Give lizards plenty of hiding places . Lizards are found at the bottom of the food chain. Providing protection from their natural predators ensures their continued existence. Plant bushy perennials, create a pile of rocks or brush, or use artificial features such as piles of bricks or pipes.
- Include areas for lizards to bask . Large rocks, concrete blocks, or a stone wall absorb and retain heat during the day for those cool late summer nights.
- provide water . This can be achieved by creating a pond, a water feature, or even using a small bowl. Include rocks or sticks as a ramp for lizards to access the water.
Finally, avoid mowing the lawn in the afternoon or evening when reptiles are most active. Keeping pets, such as cats, at night will protect and preserve common garden lizards that visit your backyard.