If you’re new to exploring the natural wildlife of Houston, understanding the native lizards is a great place to start. This guide covers 10 common lizard species found in Houston and the surrounding Gulf Coast region, perfect for beginners interested in local reptiles, whether for casual observation or basic herpetology knowledge. Each species is described with key traits and behaviors that make them unique and worth knowing.
Texas Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus olivaceus)
The Texas spiny lizard is a medium-sized lizard common in Houston’s wooded areas. It has rough, keeled scales giving a spiny appearance, often with a mix of brown, gray, and greenish hues that help it blend into tree bark. Males display bright blue patches on their bellies during breeding season, making them easier to identify. They are diurnal and primarily insectivorous, often seen basking on rocks or tree trunks.
Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
Known for its vivid green color, the green anole is Houston’s native “chameleon” due to its ability to change shades from bright green to brown. It is relatively small, slender, and arboreal, frequently found in gardens, shrubs, and trees. Males have a pinkish throat fan (dewlap) used for territorial displays and attracting mates. They feed on insects and are active during the day, making them easy to spot in residential areas.
Six-lined Racerunner (Aspidoscelis sexlineata)
This fast-moving lizard is identifiable by six distinct yellowish stripes running down its back and sides against a darker background. It prefers open, sunny habitats such as grassy fields and sandy soils around Houston. Racerunners are among the quickest lizards in the region, capable of rapid bursts to escape predators. Their diet consists mainly of ants and other small invertebrates.
Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus)
The eastern fence lizard resembles the Texas spiny lizard but is generally grayer with wavy black lines on its back. It inhabits open woodlands and forest edges, often seen on fences, rocks, and logs. Males show vivid blue patches on the throat and belly during mating season. Their spiny scales provide a rough texture, and they primarily eat spiders and insects.
Broad-headed Skink (Plestiodon laticeps)
One of the largest native lizards in Houston, the broad-headed skink can reach up to 12 inches in length. Males develop a distinctly broad, reddish-orange head during breeding season. They are excellent climbers, frequently found in trees and logs in wooded areas. Their diet includes insects, small amphibians, and occasionally fruits, making them versatile feeders.
Ground Skink (Scincella lateralis)
The ground skink is a small, slender lizard with smooth, shiny scales and a coppery-brown coloration. It prefers moist leaf litter and shaded forest floors around Houston. Unlike many other lizards, ground skinks have reduced limbs, making them resemble small snakes in movement. They primarily feed on small insects and larvae found in the soil.
Broad-banded Gecko (Coleonyx brevis)
Although less common in Houston proper, the broad-banded gecko is found in nearby southern Texas regions and occasionally spotted locally. This nocturnal gecko has distinctive broad dark bands across its body and large, lidless eyes adapted for night vision. It is insectivorous and uses its sticky toe pads to climb smooth surfaces. Its secretive nature means it’s rarely seen during the day.
Six-lined Racerunner (Aspidoscelis sexlineata)
This species is notable for its incredible speed and agility, often darting across open ground in search of prey. It features six yellow stripes running lengthwise on its body and tail, contrasting with a dark background. The racerunner thrives in sunny, open habitats such as fields and roadsides around Houston. Its quick reflexes make it a challenging subject for photographers and enthusiasts.
Texas Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum)
The Texas horned lizard, also called the “horned toad,” is a stout, flattened lizard covered in spines and horns. It is well adapted to arid environments and uses its camouflage to blend into sandy or rocky soils. This species primarily feeds on harvester ants and can squirt blood from its eyes as a defense mechanism. Although less common in urban Houston, it can be found in nearby rural and sandy habitats.
Common Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana)
This small lizard is characterized by a distinctive dark blotch behind each front leg, giving it its name. It inhabits rocky and sandy habitats and is highly adaptable, often seen around Houston’s outskirts. Side-blotched lizards exhibit interesting mating strategies with males showing different throat colors indicating dominance and territory behavior. They mainly consume small insects and spiders.
How to Choose
When identifying or learning about Houston’s native lizards, focus on habitat, size, color patterns, and behavior. Many species overlap in range but differ in preferred environments—arboreal versus ground-dwelling or nocturnal versus diurnal. Consider the lizard’s activity time, distinctive markings like throat color or striping, and scale texture. For beginners, observing habitat and behavior often provides the clearest clues before diving into detailed taxonomy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Houston’s native lizards dangerous to humans?
No, native lizards in Houston pose no danger to humans. They are generally shy and avoid contact.
Can I keep native Houston lizards as pets?
Some native species can be kept legally with proper permits, but it’s best to research local regulations and care requirements.
What do Houston lizards eat?
Most native lizards primarily eat insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates found in their habitats.
When is the best time to see lizards in Houston?
Daytime in spring and summer is ideal since many species are active and basking in warm weather.
How do I tell a green anole from an invasive species?
The green anole is native and slender, while invasive brown anoles are stockier and have different coloration patterns.
Do Houston lizards help control pests?
Yes, they naturally reduce insect populations, making them beneficial for gardens and ecosystems.
Final Thoughts
Houston’s native lizards offer a fascinating glimpse into local biodiversity, with species adapted to a variety of environments from forests to urban yards. Learning to identify and appreciate these reptiles enhances outdoor experiences and fosters respect for wildlife. Whether you’re a casual observer, student, or budding herpetologist, understanding these 10 species is a solid foundation for exploring Houston’s reptile fauna.
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