Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious student, or a homeowner interested in local wildlife, understanding the types of lizards found in Minnesota can enhance your appreciation of the state’s unique ecosystems. While Minnesota is not known for a large diversity of lizard species due to its cooler climate, a few hardy and interesting species do make appearances. This list covers the native and occasional visitor lizard species you might encounter, providing detailed insights to help you identify and learn about them.
Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus)
The Eastern Fence Lizard is one of the most common lizard species in Minnesota, especially in the southern parts of the state. Recognizable by its rough, spiny scales and vibrant coloration, males often display bright blue patches on their bellies and throats during the breeding season. These lizards prefer rocky outcroppings, woodlands, and sunny areas where they bask and hunt insects, making them a fascinating sight for outdoor enthusiasts.
Six-lined Racerunner (Aspidoscelis sexlineata)
Although more common in the southeastern United States, the Six-lined Racerunner has been occasionally sighted in southern Minnesota. It’s characterized by its slender body, six distinct yellow or white lines running lengthwise along its back, and a quick, agile movement. This lizard is notable for its speed and ability to run rapidly across open terrain, which helps it evade predators and hunt for insects.
Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
While technically a snake, the Common Garter Snake is often mistaken for a lizard due to its elongated body and movement style. It is widespread throughout Minnesota and can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and forests. Its distinctive longitudinal stripes and its role in controlling pest populations make it an important part of local ecosystems, and it often appears during the warmer months.
Northern Prairie Skink (Plestiodon septentrionalis)
The Northern Prairie Skink is a rare sight in Minnesota, mostly found in the southwestern regions. It has a sleek, shiny body with a distinctive blue tail in juveniles that fades with age. These skinks prefer grasslands and open woodlands, where they hunt insects and small invertebrates, and they are notable for their ability to burrow and escape predators quickly.
Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
The Green Anole, often called the American chameleon, is an occasional visitor to Minnesota, typically seen in the southern parts of the state or in warm, urban environments. Known for its ability to change color from bright green to brown, it is a small, graceful lizard that perches on plants and walls. Its presence adds a splash of color and diversity to Minnesota’s reptile fauna, especially in urban gardens.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
Though a turtle rather than a lizard, the Painted Turtle deserves mention for its commonality and charm in Minnesota’s freshwater habitats. With its distinctive yellow and red markings on the shell and head, it is often seen basking on logs or swimming in ponds and lakes. Its adaptability to various aquatic environments makes it a favorite among local wildlife watchers.
How to Choose
When selecting or trying to identify a lizard in Minnesota, consider factors such as habitat, size, coloration, and behavior. Native species like the Eastern Fence Lizard are more likely in rocky, sunny areas, while occasional visitors such as the Green Anole may be found in urban or warmer microclimates. Pay attention to physical features—scale texture, color patterns, and body shape—and behavioral cues like speed or basking habits. Always use a field guide or local wildlife resources to confirm your identification, and remember that many lizard species are protected or sensitive to disturbance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lizards common in Minnesota?
No, lizards are relatively rare in Minnesota due to the colder climate, but a few species and occasional visitors can be found, especially in southern regions.
What is the most common lizard in Minnesota?
The Eastern Fence Lizard is the most commonly encountered native lizard in Minnesota, particularly in rocky and sunny habitats.
Can I keep lizards as pets in Minnesota?
Many native lizards are protected by law, and keeping wild lizards is discouraged. However, some species like the Green Anole can be kept legally if sourced responsibly and in accordance with local regulations.
When are lizards active in Minnesota?
Lizards in Minnesota are generally active from late spring through early fall, when temperatures are warm enough for them to bask and hunt.
How can I attract lizards to my yard?
Providing sunny basking spots, rocky areas, and insect-friendly gardens can encourage lizards to visit your yard. Avoid pesticides and create natural hiding spots to support local populations.
Final Thoughts
While Minnesota may not boast a vast array of lizard species, the few that do inhabit the state or visit seasonally offer fascinating insights into reptile adaptation and survival. Recognizing these species enhances your understanding of local ecosystems and adds a new dimension to outdoor exploration. Whether you’re spotting an Eastern Fence Lizard basking on rocks or observing a Green Anole in an urban garden, these creatures remind us of the diverse life thriving even in cooler climates. Respect their habitats, observe responsibly, and enjoy the unique reptilian residents of Minnesota.
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