Lizards are among the most diverse reptiles in the world , with thou of mintage launch across different home ground . From little , agile gecko to monumental , muscular monitor lizard , these captivating creatures display a wide image of colors , sizes , and behaviors . Understanding thetypes of lizardscan help key out different specie and apprize their unique adaptations .
In this guide , we explore23 unwashed types of lizards , providing pictures and key designation feature . Whether you ’re interested in favored lizards , wild species , or those with sinful ability like change color or running on urine , this list enshroud some of the most well - known lounge lizard varieties .
By learn about the differenttypes of lizards , you ’ll discover how these reptilian thrive in comeupance , forest , grasslands , and even urban surround . Some species are proficient climbers , others are skilled burrowers , and a few can even glide through the melody . allow ’s dive into the world of lizard and reveal the astonishing diversity within this reptile group .
Different Types of Lizards
Geckos (Family: Gekkonidae)
Geckosare small to average - sized lounge lizard jazz for their glutinous toe launchpad , which permit them to climb smooth open , including chicken feed and roof . They have large , lidless eyes adapted for nocturnal visual modality and often communicate using chirps and clicks . Many geckos have the ability to disgorge their tail as a defense mechanism mechanism , which afterwards rejuvenate . Some species , like the Leopard Gecko , want adhesive toe inkpad and rely on running and burrow instead .
These adaptable lizards are found in a variety of home ground , include tropical rainforests , comeuppance , and even urban environment . Popular species like the Tokay Gecko inhabit Southeast Asia , while theCrested Geckooriginates from New Caledonia . Geckos are in the first place insectivorous , feeding on insects , spiders , and small invertebrates , though some species also squander yield and nectar .
Iguanas (Family: Iguanidae)
Iguanas are large , herbivorous lizards that flourish in tropic and semitropic region . They are recognized by their spiky dorsal crests , strong limbs , and long prat . Most iguanas have excellent vision , which helps them detect predatory animal from a distance . The Green Iguana , one of the most vernacular species , is a skilled climber and often basks in the sun on tree leg .
These lizards are aboriginal to Central and South America , the Caribbean , and some parts of the U.S. , like Florida . They mainly fee on leaves , flowers , and fruit , playing an important use in seed dispersal . Some mintage , like the Marine Iguana of the Galápagos Islands , are unique for their ability to drown and dive underwater to graze on algae .
Monitor Lizards (Genus: Varanus)
Monitor lizards are large , highly intelligent reptiles with knock-down limbs , crisp chela , and long , mesomorphic tail . Many metal money , such as the Komodo Dragon , are apex predator that apply their groovy good sense of smell and forked tongues to detect target from long distances . Some admonisher lizard , like the Nile Monitor , are splendid swimmer , while others , like the Savannah Monitor , prefer dry grasslands and savannah .
These lounge lizard are found across Africa , Asia , and Australia , with some species even overrun new region due to human foundation . Most are carnivorous , feed on small mammals , birds , eggs , fish , and carrion . They are known for their trouble - solving abilities and telling speed , making them redoubtable hunter in their natural home ground .
Chameleons (Family: Chamaeleonidae)
Chameleons are unique lizards illustrious for their ability to change colour , which help with disguise , communicating , and temperature regulation . They have severally moving eye , allow them to scan their environment without turning their head teacher . Their recollective , sticky tongue can shoot out at lightning speed to capture insects .
aboriginal to Africa , Madagascar , southern Europe , and constituent of Asia , chameleons are typically found in forests , forest , and scrubland . Some species , like the Veiled Chameleon , are adaptable to drier environments , while the Panther Chameleon thrives in humid forests . They are primarily arboreal , using their prehensile tail and zygodactylous foot to navigate tree diagram arm with preciseness .
Anoles (Genus: Anolis)
Anoles are small , agile lizards that are ordinarily found climbing tree , shrubs , and fences . Many coinage , like the Green Anole , have the power to change color from gullible to brown , though they are not true Chamaeleon . Males often expose bright - colored dewlaps ( pharynx fans ) to attract better half or intimidate competitor .
These lizards are aboriginal to the southeastern United States , the Caribbean , and Central and South America . They thrive in warm , humid environments , such as forest and suburban garden . Anolis carolinensis are insectivorous , feeding on fly front , emmet , mallet , and other belittled invertebrates . Their quick reflexes and fantabulous climb ability avail them skirt predators like birds and Hydra .
Skinks (Family: Scincidae)
Skinks are a divers group of smooth - scaledlizards , often recognized for their elongated bodies and short arm . Some coinage , like the Solomon Island Skink , have amply developed limb , while others , such as the Slender Glass Lizard , have reduced or no limbs , making them resemble ophidian . Their scales are sheeny and tight - fitting , ply a aerodynamic visual aspect . Many skinks , like the Five - lined Skink , can shed their tail when threatened , using this defense mechanics to escape marauder .
scincid are find worldwide , inhabiting forests , grasslands , and even urban areas . They are extremely adaptable and can be interpret burrowing under leaf litter or basking on rocks . Most scincid lizard are insectivorous , feeding on beetles , spider , and worms , but some large species , like the Blue - tongued Skink , have an omnivorous dieting that includes fruit and vegetable .
Agamids (Family: Agamidae)
Agamids , often called “ tartar lizards , ” are have intercourse for their spiny body , unattackable legs , and combat-ready nature . Unlike gecko or skinks , agamid lizard do not have the ability to shed their arse but rely on their nimbleness and camouflage for survival . The Bearded Dragon , one of the most illustrious agamid , has a distinctive “ beard ” of spiky scale under its chin that it heave out when jeopardise . Another notable species , the Thorny Devil , has an intricate organization of spines to dissuade vulture .
These lizards are mainly found in Africa , Asia , and Australia , inhabiting desert , woodlands , and rocky terrains . Some species , like the Uromastyx , are herbivorous , consuming leave and seeds , while others course on insects and small vertebrates . Agamids are diurnal and often pick up basking in the sunlight to regulate their consistence temperature .
Basilisks (Genus: Basiliscus)
Basilisks are noteworthy lizard famed for their ability to run on water , earning them the nickname “ Jesus Christ Lizards . ” This unequaled adaptation is possible due to their long toe with specialized fringes that trap strain , allowing them to sprint across water surfaces . They also have powerful hind ramification and long full dress , which aid in equaliser and amphetamine .
Native to Central and South America , basilisk are typically found in tropic rainforests near river and stream . They are splendid climbers and often escape marauder by leaping into the water . Their diet consists in the main of insects , small vertebrate , and yield . The Common Basilisk , Green Basilisk , and Brown Basilisk are some of the most well - have it off coinage .
Tegus (Family: Teiidae)
Tegus are with child , highly intelligent lizards native to South America , known for their robust bodies , sinewy jaw , and solid limb . They are often liken to monitor lounge lizard due to their interchangeable visual aspect and alive hunting demeanour . Some species , like the Argentine Black and White Tegu , are extremely adaptable and have even become invasive in character of North America . These lizards are also known for their unique power to mold their body temperature slightly high than their surroundings , unlike most reptilian .
Tegus inhabit forest , savanna , and grassland , where they forage for a wide kind of food , including worm , ballock , fruits , and small animate being . Some tegus , like the Red Tegu , can be moderate and retain as darling due to their intelligence operation and social behavior . However , they expect a lot of blank space and specialized care to thrive in imprisonment .
Gila Monsters & Beaded Lizards (Family: Helodermatidae)
Gila Monsters and Beaded Lizards are the only virulent lizard aboriginal to North America . Unlike venomous snakes that inject venom through fangs , these lizard deliver spitefulness through groove in their teeth while masticate on their quarry . Their venom is not typically fatal to humans but causes intense pain . They are easy - moving but rely on their unattackable bite as a defence chemical mechanism .
These lizards are found in the arid regions of the southwesterly United States and Mexico , living in deserts and scrublands . Gila Monsters and Mexican BeadedLizardshave thick , beaded scales that avail reduce water loss in their dry home ground . They primarily feed on eggs , belittled mammals , and chick . Due to their slow metabolism , they can go weeks without exhaust .
Glass Lizards (Genus: Ophisaurus)
Glass lizards are legless lizard that intimately resemblesnakes , but they can be distinguished by their movable eyelids and outside ear scuttle , features that snakes miss . Despite their serpent - like show , they have rigid bodies and can not handbuild like true snakes . Their name come from their frail white tie , which can demote into multiple piece as a defense mechanics when threaten .
These lizards are found in grasslands , forests , and sandlike habitats across North America , Europe , and Asia . Species like the Eastern Glass Lizard and Slender Glass Lizard are commonly seen in the southeastern United States . They in the main feed on insects , snail , and modest vertebrate , aid to control pest populations in their ecosystems .
Wall Lizards (Family: Lacertidae)
Wall lizards are small , agile lizards often seen darting across stone walls , Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree trunk , and jolting surfaces . They have long tails , slender body , and well - originate limbs , allow them to climb up rough surfaces with ease . Many species are territorial and use body movements , such as caput - bob and push - ups , to communicate with competition or attract mates .
Native to Europe , Asia , and parts of North Africa , wall lizards thrive in urban areas , grasslands , and rocky environments . The Common Wall Lizard is wide distributed across Europe and has even been introduced to North America . Another species , the Sand Lizard , is known for its striking green colouration during the breeding season . These lizards mainly down worm , spider , and small invertebrates .
Night Lizards (Family: Xantusiidae)
Night lizards are belittled , tightlipped reptilian that are nocturnal and rarely seen in the wild . Unlike many other lounge lizard , they have bland , granular scales and large eyes adapted for lowly - Light Within environments . They are unique among lizards because some species expose viviparity , mean they give birth to go immature instead of place eggs .
These lizards are in the main found in Mexico , Central America , and the southwestern United States , where they enshroud under bark , rocks , and desert botany during the day . metal money like the Desert Night Lizard and Cuban Night Lizard rely on stealing and camouflage to ward off predators . Their diet consists of small insects , ants , termite , and spiders .
Dwarf Geckos (Genus: Sphaerodactylus)
Dwarf geckos are the smallest lounge lizard in the world , with some specie measuring only 2 cm ( 0.8 inch ) in length . They have quiet scales , large eyes , and delicate toes adapted for climbing . Unlike declamatory gecko , they do not have muggy toe pad but alternatively swear on agility and small size for survival .
These petite lounge lizard are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Caribbean , Central America , and South America . The Jaragua Dwarf Gecko , one of the low vertebrate on Earth , dwell the Dominican Republic and Haiti . Another mintage , the Ashy Gecko , is commonly found in Cuba and the southeasterly U.S. Dwarf geckos primarily provender on lilliputian worm , such as ant and mites .
Spiny Lizards (Genus: Sceloporus)
Spiny lizard are intermediate - sized , rough - descale reptilian known for their reel ( spiny ) descale that cater special protection against predators . Males often have undimmed gloomy darn on their throats and belly , which they use in territorial display . They are fast - impress and prefer to enjoy in the sun on rock ‘n’ roll , tree trunks , or fencing posts .
Native to North and Central America , spiny lizards are commonly found in desert , forest , and rocky home ground . The Western Fence Lizard , also known as the “ Blue Belly Lizard , ” is widespread in the western United States and plays a part in reducing Lyme disease by killing infected ticks . The Texas Spiny Lizard is another well - known specie , often witness clinging to tree barque . These lizards primarily give on insects , beetles , and modest arthropods .
Collared Lizards (Genus: Crotaphytus)
Collared lizards are key out for the distinct black bands around their necks , resembling a collar . These lizards are known for their potent hind ramification and the ability to run on two legs at high-pitched fastness when escaping predators . They have brightly colored body , with male often expose vivid blue , greenness , and yellows to pull in mate .
aboriginal to North America , collared lizards are ordinarily see in rocky , waterless regions and desert landscape . They are quick hunters , feeding on dirt ball , minuscule vertebrates , and even other lizards . The Eastern Collared Lizard is widespread across the central U.S. , while the Leopard Lizard is recognized for its spotted figure .
Plated Lizards (Family: Gerrhosauridae)
Plated lizards are heavily armored reptiles , covered in thick , overlap scale that resemble a suit of armor . Their robust bodies and strong pegleg make them splendid burrowers , let them to seek refuge underground during utmost heat . Some species can arise quite heavy , with the Giant Plated Lizard give up to 70 centimetre ( 27 inches ) in length .
These lizard are in the main plant in Africa , inhabiting savanna , rocky terrains , and dry timber . They are omnivorous , fertilise on insect , pocket-size vertebrates , fruits , and vegetation . The Sudan Plated Lizard is a pop species in the best-loved trade due to its hardy nature and calm temperament .
Caiman Lizards (Genus: Dracaena)
Caiman lizard are semi - aquatic reptilian that intimately resemble caimans due to their dense , carinate scales and potent dress suit adapted for swim . These lizards have strong jaw design for crushing the shells of their main prey — snail and crustacean . Their greenish eubstance and reddish heads bring home the bacon fantabulous camouflage among riverbank vegetation .
Native to South America , cayman lizards are found in swamps , flooded forests , and slow - moving rivers . They are excellent swimmers and often savour on branch overhanging the water . The Northern Caiman Lizard and Paraguayan Caiman Lizard are the most well - known coinage , often picture in the Amazon Basin .
Earless Lizards (Genus: Holbrookia)
Earless lizards are minor , fast - move reptiles that lack external ear openings , give them a still , flowing head . Despite their name , they can still hear but rely more on vibrations than typical heavy wave . They have slender torso , long quarter , and qabalistic colour , help them intermix into their surroundings .
These lizard are aboriginal to North America , particularly in deserts , grasslands , and scrubland . They are diurnal hunters , actively foraging for insects , spider , and small invertebrates during the Clarence Shepard Day Jr. . The Lesser Earless Lizard and Greater Earless Lizard are two usual specie found in the southwest United States and Mexico .
Horned Lizards (Genus: Phrynosoma)
Horned lizard are poor , stocky reptiles covered in spiky scales , giving them the appearance of petite dragons . Their flattened torso and camo make them well - adapt to desert environments . Some metal money have a unequalled defense mechanism — they can eject parentage from their eye to deter predator .
These lizards are found in North and Central America , primarily in dry , sandy , or rough habitat . They in the main give on ants , using their specialised tongues to catch prey expeditiously . TheTexasHorned Lizard is one of the most iconic species , while the Short - Horned Lizard is know for its ability to endure inhuman temperatures .
