Wisconsin is often thought of for its forests, lakes, and cold winters, but it also hosts a surprising variety of lizard species. This list is perfect for nature enthusiasts, students, or anyone curious about the reptiles that inhabit the Badger State. Whether you’re a hiker, a photographer, or a researcher, knowing what lizard species are native or occasional visitors can enhance your understanding of Wisconsin’s diverse ecosystems.
Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus)
The Eastern Fence Lizard is the most commonly encountered lizard in Wisconsin, especially in the southern parts of the state. Recognizable by its rough, spiny scales and distinctive blue patches on its belly and throat during the breeding season, it prefers rocky outcroppings, woodpiles, and sunny fences. Its ability to thermoregulate efficiently makes it a resilient species, often seen basking in the sun, and it plays a vital role in controlling insects.
Common Five-Lined Skink (Plestiodon fasciatus)
While more common in the eastern U.S., the Common Five-Lined Skink occasionally appears in southern Wisconsin, especially in moist, wooded areas with plenty of leaf litter and logs. It is characterized by five bright yellow or white stripes running from head to tail on a dark body, and juveniles display a striking blue tail. This skink prefers habitats with ample cover and is notable for its ability to shed its tail to escape predators.
Coal Skink (Plestiodon anthracinus)
The Coal Skink is a secretive species found in the eastern parts of Wisconsin, often near streams, wetlands, and moist forest floors. It has a sleek, dark body with a slightly lighter underside and a square-shaped head. Its preference for moist environments and its burrowing habits make it less visible, but it’s an important indicator of healthy aquatic and riparian ecosystems.
Northern Prairie Skink (Plestiodon septentrionalis)
Although more common in the Great Plains, the Northern Prairie Skink’s range extends into southern Wisconsin, particularly in prairie remnants and open grassy areas. It has a smooth, shiny body with a brown or gray coloration and can be distinguished from similar species by its lack of prominent stripes. Its burrowing lifestyle helps it avoid predators and survive in open, dry habitats.
Woodland Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus attenuatus)
The Woodland Glass Lizard is a legless lizard sometimes mistaken for a snake but is actually a limbless lizard capable of shedding its tail to escape predators. It prefers deciduous forests and wooded edges in southern Wisconsin, where it hunts for insects and small invertebrates. Its transparent, glass-like appearance of the tail and slender body make it a fascinating species for herpetologists and nature watchers alike.
Slender Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus attenuatus)
Similar to the Woodland Glass Lizard, this species is distinguished by its elongated, slender body and preference for open, grassy fields and forest edges. It can grow up to 4 feet long and is often seen basking on logs or rocks. Its ability to shed its tail and its elusive nature make it a rare but intriguing sight in Wisconsin’s habitats.
Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
The Green Anole is a small, vibrant lizard with the ability to change color from bright green to brown, primarily found in the southeastern U.S. but occasionally seen in southern Wisconsin as a non-native or escaped pet. It prefers warm, humid environments such as gardens, shrubbery, and building walls. Its striking appearance and adaptive color-changing ability make it a popular species among hobbyists and naturalists.
Six-Lined Racerunner (Aspidoscelis sexlineata)
Though primarily a southern species, the Six-Lined Racerunner has been recorded in southern Wisconsin, especially in sandy or rocky areas. It features a slender body with six distinct white or yellow lines running lengthwise on a tan or brown background. Known for its speed and agility, it is an active predator of insects and small invertebrates, making it a fascinating species to observe in the wild.
How to Choose
When selecting a lizard to observe or study, consider habitat compatibility, size, behavior, and appearance. Think about whether you want a species that is more visible and active or one that is elusive and secretive. Also, be mindful of local regulations and the importance of preserving native populations—never capture wild lizards without proper permissions. Understanding each species’ ecological role and habitat needs will help you appreciate and protect Wisconsin’s native herpetofauna.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are lizards common in Wisconsin? No, Wisconsin has relatively few native lizard species due to its cold climate, but some species, like the Eastern Fence Lizard, are common in southern regions.
- Can lizards survive Wisconsin winters? Most lizard species in Wisconsin hibernate during the cold months, burrowing underground or seeking shelter in crevices to survive winter.
- Are any lizards endangered in Wisconsin? The native lizard species are generally not endangered, but habitat loss and climate change could threaten their populations in the future.
- How can I attract lizards to my yard? Provide sunny basking spots, such as rocks or logs, and avoid pesticides. Maintaining a natural, insect-friendly environment supports lizard populations.
- Are non-native lizards found in Wisconsin? Occasionally, escaped pet Green Anoles or other exotic species appear, but they are not established populations and are not native.
Final Thoughts
While Wisconsin may not be renowned for its lizard diversity, the species that do inhabit the state offer a fascinating glimpse into reptile adaptations and ecological roles. From the hardy Eastern Fence Lizard to the elusive Glass Lizards, each species contributes uniquely to Wisconsin’s ecosystems. Whether you’re an avid herpetologist or a casual nature lover, understanding these lizards enriches your appreciation for the state’s natural heritage and underscores the importance of habitat conservation for these remarkable creatures.
Related
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- Types of Big Lizards: A Guide to the Largest Reptiles
- Types of Bats with Wings: An In-Depth Guide to Bat Diversity