Alabama is home to a diverse array of lizard species, from the common to the rare. Whether you’re a nature lover, a beginner herpetologist, or just curious about the reptiles in your backyard, understanding the different types of lizards found in Alabama can enhance your appreciation for local wildlife. This guide covers ten notable lizard species in Alabama, providing detailed descriptions to help you identify and learn about each one.
Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
The Green Anole is perhaps the most recognizable lizard in Alabama, often called the American chameleon for its ability to change color from bright green to brown. Typically measuring 5 to 8 inches long, it has a slender body, a long tail, and a distinctive dewlap used in territorial displays. These lizards thrive in gardens, shrubs, and walls, making them a common sight for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Their adaptability to various habitats and their striking color-changing ability make them a fascinating species worth observing.
Southern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus)
The Southern Fence Lizard is a robust, spiny lizard that measures about 4 to 7 inches long. It is characterized by its rough, keeled scales and distinctive dark, wavy patterns along its back and sides. Often found basking on rocks, fences, and tree trunks, this species prefers open woodlands and rocky areas. Its ability to run quickly and its preference for sunlit environments make it an interesting species for outdoor explorers to spot and identify.
Six-lined Racerunner (Aspidoscelis sexlineata)
The Six-lined Racerunner is a fast-moving, slender lizard with a length of 6 to 10 inches. It is named for the six distinct dark lines running lengthwise down its back and sides, contrasting with a tan or light brown background. Racerunners are often seen darting across open spaces like sandy patches and grassy fields, especially in the warmer months. Their speed and agility are impressive, and they play a vital role in controlling insect populations.
Six-spotted Tiger Lizard (Crotaphytus collaris)
This striking, medium-sized lizard reaches lengths of 4 to 8 inches and is known for its vibrant coloration and bold black markings on a yellow, orange, or red background. The Six-spotted Tiger Lizard is often found in rocky areas, pine forests, and open woodlands. Its distinctive black spots and energetic behavior make it a favorite among reptile enthusiasts. They are also known for their territorial nature and can be quite aggressive if threatened.
Coal Skink (Plestiodon anthracinus)
The Coal Skink is a small, shiny lizard measuring about 4 to 8 inches. It has a sleek, dark body with a bright blue tail, especially prominent in juveniles. These skinks prefer moist, wooded habitats, often hiding under leaf litter or logs. Their smooth scales and quick movements make them a delight to observe, and their preference for shaded, forested environments makes them less visible than some other species.
Common Five-lined Skink (Plestiodon fasciatus)
The Common Five-lined Skink is easily identified by its five bright yellow to orange lines running from head to tail against a glossy, dark body. Growing up to 8 inches long, this skink is often seen basking on rocks or logs in deciduous forests and suburban gardens. Juveniles display a bright blue tail that fades with age. Their distinctive markings and active behavior make them a popular species among wildlife watchers.
Eastern Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus ventralis)
The Eastern Glass Lizard is a legless lizard that resembles a snake but is actually a lizard with movable eyelids and external ear openings. It can reach lengths of up to 4 feet and is often mistaken for a snake due to its elongated, slender body. Found in open woodlands, grasslands, and sandy areas, it spends much of its time burrowing or hiding under debris. Its smooth, shiny scales and unique movement make it a distinctive sight in Alabama’s ecosystems.
Carolina Lizard (Holbrookia maculata)
The Carolina Lizard is a small, ground-dwelling species measuring about 3 to 4 inches. It has a pale, sandy coloration with dark spots or streaks, which helps it blend into its arid and semi-arid habitats. Frequently seen in open, sunny areas like fields and prairies, it is a quick mover and rarely stays still for long. Its subtle markings and preference for dry environments make it an interesting species for desert-like habitat enthusiasts.
Broad-headed Skink (Plestiodon laticeps)
The Broad-headed Skink is one of Alabama’s largest skinks, growing up to 14 inches long. Its most notable feature is its broad, flattened head and bright orange or red coloration on the head in males during the breeding season. Preferring deciduous forests and wooded areas, it often inhabits fallen logs, leaf litter, and tree trunks. Its robust build and striking appearance make it a standout in Alabama’s reptile community.
How to Choose
When selecting or identifying lizards in Alabama, consider factors such as habitat, size, coloration, and behavior. Think about where you’re likely to encounter them—garden, forest, rocky areas, or open fields—and match these environments to the species described. Pay attention to physical features like scale texture, markings, and body shape, which are key to accurate identification. If you’re interested in observing or handling lizards, ensure you respect their habitat and avoid causing stress or harm. Recognizing their behaviors, such as basking, darting, or territorial displays, can also aid in proper identification.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are all lizards in Alabama harmless? Yes, all native lizard species in Alabama are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans.
- When are lizards most active in Alabama? Lizards are typically most active during warm months from late spring to early fall, especially on sunny days.
- Can I keep Alabama lizards as pets? Many species, like the Green Anole, can be kept as pets with proper care, but always check local regulations and ensure ethical sourcing.
- How can I attract lizards to my yard? Create a habitat with rocks, logs, and native plants, and avoid pesticides to encourage natural prey and shelter for lizards.
- Are any of these lizards endangered? Most common Alabama lizards are not endangered, but habitat destruction can threaten certain populations locally. Always support conservation efforts.
Final Thoughts
Alabama’s rich biodiversity includes a variety of fascinating lizard species, each with unique behaviors and adaptations. Whether you’re exploring the woods, gardens, or rocky outcroppings, recognizing these lizards enhances your connection to local ecosystems. Respect their habitats, observe from a distance, and enjoy the opportunity to learn about these resilient reptiles that thrive in Alabama’s diverse landscapes. With a little patience and keen eyes, discovering these lizards can become a rewarding part of your outdoor adventures.
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