Mississippi’s warm climate and diverse habitats make it a hotspot for a variety of lizard species. If you’re a nature enthusiast, a curious homeowner, or a student interested in herpetology, understanding the local lizard species can enhance your appreciation of the state’s wildlife. This list covers the most common and interesting lizards found in Mississippi, providing detailed descriptions to help you identify and learn about these fascinating reptiles.
Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
The Green Anole is perhaps the most recognizable lizard in Mississippi, known for its vibrant green color and dewlaps used in territorial displays. Typically measuring about 5 to 8 inches, this lizard thrives in trees, shrubs, and even around human dwellings. Its ability to change from green to brown helps it blend into various backgrounds, making it a master of camouflage and a favorite among local wildlife watchers.
Six-lined Racerunner (Aspidoscelis sexlineata)
The Six-lined Racerunner is a fast-moving, slender lizard characterized by six distinct black lines running down its back on a tan or gray background. Usually reaching lengths of 8 to 12 inches, it prefers open, sunny habitats like grasslands, sandy areas, and edges of forests. Its speed and agility make it a fascinating species to observe, and it plays an important role in controlling insect populations.
Southern Coal Skink (Plestiodon anthracinus)
The Southern Coal Skink is a semi-aquatic lizard with shiny, black scales and a bright blue tail in juveniles, which fades with age. It typically inhabits moist areas near streams, ponds, and wetlands, often hiding under leaf litter or rocks. This skink is beneficial for controlling pests and is notable for its smooth, shiny appearance and relatively sluggish movements compared to other lizards.
Slender Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus attenuatus)
The Slender Glass Lizard resembles a snake but is actually legless and can grow up to 3 feet long. Its transparent, glass-like appearance in certain parts of its body gives it a unique look. Found in sandy soils, open woodlands, and grasslands, this lizard is often mistaken for a snake, but it can be distinguished by its eyelids and external ear openings. It is a fascinating species due to its limbless form and secretive behavior.
Green Tree Lizard (Anolis sagrei)
Although more common in the southeastern United States, the Green Tree Lizard occasionally appears in southern Mississippi. Slightly smaller than the Green Anole, it is distinguished by its brown and gray coloration and prefers urban and suburban environments with ample trees and shrubs. Its adaptability to disturbed habitats makes it a common sight in gardens and parks.
Broad-headed Skink (Plestiodon laticeps)
The Broad-headed Skink is one of Mississippi’s largest skinks, reaching up to 14 inches in length. It features a robust body, a broad head, and a bright orange or yellow tail in juveniles, which darkens with age. Preferring deciduous forests and wooded areas, this skink is often seen basking on logs or rocks and is valued for its role in controlling insect pests.
Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus)
The Eastern Fence Lizard is a common sight on fences, rocks, and tree trunks. It has a rough, spiny appearance with a gray or brown coloration and distinctive dark bands or patches. Growing up to 8 inches long, it is a hardy species that basks in the sun and feeds on insects, making it an important part of the local ecosystem.
Ground Skink (Scincella lateralis)
The Ground Skink is a tiny, secretive lizard usually less than 4 inches long, often found under leaf litter or in leaf litter in forested areas. Its slender body and smooth, shiny scales allow it to slip through leaf litter with ease. Despite its small size, it plays a crucial role in controlling soil-dwelling insects and is a common but often overlooked species.
Carolina Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
The Carolina Anole is a subspecies of the Green Anole and is widespread throughout Mississippi. It is slightly smaller and tends to favor wooded areas, gardens, and suburban yards. Its striking green coloration and active behavior make it a favorite among birders and photographers alike, and it is often seen darting among shrubs and trees.
How to Choose
When selecting a lizard to observe or potentially keep as a pet, consider factors like size, habitat preference, activity level, and ease of care. Identifying the species in your local environment can also help you understand their needs and behaviors. Always prioritize native species to support local ecosystems and avoid introducing non-native or invasive lizards that could disrupt the natural balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are lizards in Mississippi dangerous to humans? Most Mississippi lizards are harmless and pose no threat to humans. They may bite if threatened but are generally timid and prefer to escape.
- What is the most common lizard in Mississippi? The Green Anole is the most prevalent, frequently seen in yards, trees, and shrubs across the state.
- Do lizards in Mississippi hibernate? Yes, many species enter brumation (a hibernation-like state) during the colder winter months, especially in northern parts of the state.
- Can I keep Mississippi lizards as pets? While some species like the Green Anole can be kept as pets, always check local regulations and ensure proper care to support their health and well-being.
- What do Mississippi lizards eat? Most are insectivores, feeding on ants, beetles, flies, and other small invertebrates. Some larger skinks may also consume small vertebrates.
Final Thoughts
Mississippi’s diverse habitats support a rich variety of lizard species, each with unique behaviors and adaptations. Whether you’re a casual observer, a student, or a conservation enthusiast, understanding these reptiles helps foster appreciation and protection of local wildlife. Remember to observe responsibly, respect their habitats, and enjoy the fascinating world of Mississippi’s lizards.
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