Lizards are among the most diverse reptiles in the world, with thousands of species found across different habitats. From small, agile geckos to massive, powerful monitor lizards, these fascinating creatures display a wide range of colors, sizes, and behaviors. Understanding the types of lizards can help identify different species and appreciate their unique adaptations.
In this guide, we explore 23 common types of lizards, providing pictures and key identification features. Whether you’re interested in pet lizards, wild species, or those with extraordinary abilities like changing color or running on water, this list covers some of the most well-known lizard varieties.
By learning about the different types of lizards, you’ll discover how these reptiles thrive in deserts, forests, grasslands, and even urban environments. Some species are expert climbers, others are skilled burrowers, and a few can even glide through the air. Let’s dive into the world of lizards and uncover the amazing diversity within this reptile group.
Different Types of Lizards
Geckos (Family: Gekkonidae)
Geckos are small to medium-sized lizards known for their sticky toe pads, which allow them to climb smooth surfaces, including glass and ceilings. They have large, lidless eyes adapted for nocturnal vision and often communicate using chirps and clicks. Many geckos have the ability to shed their tails as a defense mechanism, which later regenerates. Some species, like the Leopard Gecko, lack adhesive toe pads and rely on running and burrowing instead.
These adaptable lizards are found in a variety of habitats, including tropical rainforests, deserts, and even urban environments. Popular species like the Tokay Gecko inhabit Southeast Asia, while the Crested Gecko originates from New Caledonia. Geckos are primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates, though some species also consume fruit and nectar.
Iguanas (Family: Iguanidae)
Iguanas are large, herbivorous lizards that thrive in tropical and subtropical regions. They are recognized by their spiky dorsal crests, strong limbs, and long tails. Most iguanas have excellent vision, which helps them detect predators from a distance. The Green Iguana, one of the most common species, is a skilled climber and often basks in the sun on tree branches.
These lizards are native to Central and South America, the Caribbean, and some parts of the U.S., like Florida. They primarily feed on leaves, flowers, and fruits, playing an important role in seed dispersal. Some species, like the Marine Iguana of the Galápagos Islands, are unique for their ability to swim and dive underwater to graze on algae.
Monitor Lizards (Genus: Varanus)
Monitor lizards are large, highly intelligent reptiles with powerful limbs, sharp claws, and long, muscular tails. Many species, such as the Komodo Dragon, are apex predators that use their keen sense of smell and forked tongues to detect prey from long distances. Some monitor lizards, like the Nile Monitor, are excellent swimmers, while others, like the Savannah Monitor, prefer dry grasslands and savannas.
These lizards are found across Africa, Asia, and Australia, with some species even invading new regions due to human introduction. Most are carnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, eggs, fish, and carrion. They are known for their problem-solving abilities and impressive speed, making them formidable hunters in their natural habitats.
Chameleons (Family: Chamaeleonidae)
Chameleons are unique lizards famous for their ability to change color, which helps with camouflage, communication, and temperature regulation. They have independently moving eyes, allowing them to scan their surroundings without turning their heads. Their long, sticky tongues can shoot out at lightning speed to capture insects.
Native to Africa, Madagascar, southern Europe, and parts of Asia, chameleons are typically found in forests, woodlands, and scrublands. 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 tails and zygodactylous feet to navigate tree branches with precision.
Anoles (Genus: Anolis)
Anoles are small, agile lizards that are commonly found climbing trees, shrubs, and fences. Many species, like the Green Anole, have the ability to change color from green to brown, though they are not true chameleons. Males often display bright-colored dewlaps (throat fans) to attract mates or intimidate rivals.
These lizards are native to the southeastern United States, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. They thrive in warm, humid environments, such as forests and suburban gardens. Anoles are insectivorous, feeding on flies, ants, beetles, and other small invertebrates. Their quick reflexes and excellent climbing abilities help them evade predators like birds and snakes.
Skinks (Family: Scincidae)
Skinks are a diverse group of smooth-scaled lizards, often recognized for their elongated bodies and short limbs. Some species, like the Solomon Island Skink, have fully developed limbs, while others, such as the Slender Glass Lizard, have reduced or no limbs, making them resemble snakes. Their scales are glossy and tight-fitting, providing a sleek appearance. Many skinks, like the Five-lined Skink, can shed their tails when threatened, using this defense mechanism to escape predators.
Skinks are found worldwide, inhabiting forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. They are highly adaptable and can be seen burrowing under leaf litter or basking on rocks. Most skinks are insectivorous, feeding on beetles, spiders, and worms, but some larger species, like the Blue-tongued Skink, have an omnivorous diet that includes fruits and vegetables.
Agamids (Family: Agamidae)
Agamids, often called “dragon lizards,” are known for their spiny bodies, strong legs, and active nature. Unlike geckos or skinks, agamids do not have the ability to shed their tails but rely on their agility and camouflage for survival. The Bearded Dragon, one of the most famous agamids, has a distinctive “beard” of spiky scales under its chin that it puffs out when threatened. Another notable species, the Thorny Devil, has an intricate system of spines to deter predators.
These lizards are primarily found in Africa, Asia, and Australia, inhabiting deserts, woodlands, and rocky terrains. Some species, like the Uromastyx, are herbivorous, consuming leaves and seeds, while others feed on insects and small vertebrates. Agamids are diurnal and often seen basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature.
Basilisks (Genus: Basiliscus)
Basilisks are remarkable lizards famous for their ability to run on water, earning them the nickname “Jesus Christ Lizards.” This unique adaptation is possible due to their long toes with specialized fringes that trap air, allowing them to sprint across water surfaces. They also have powerful hind legs and long tails, which aid in balance and speed.
Native to Central and South America, basilisks are typically found in tropical rainforests near rivers and streams. They are excellent climbers and often escape predators by leaping into the water. Their diet consists mainly of insects, small vertebrates, and fruit. The Common Basilisk, Green Basilisk, and Brown Basilisk are some of the most well-known species.
Tegus (Family: Teiidae)
Tegus are large, highly intelligent lizards native to South America, known for their robust bodies, powerful jaws, and strong limbs. They are often compared to monitor lizards due to their similar appearance and active hunting behavior. Some species, like the Argentine Black and White Tegu, are highly adaptable and have even become invasive in parts of North America. These lizards are also known for their unique ability to regulate their body temperature slightly higher than their surroundings, unlike most reptiles.
Tegus inhabit forests, savannas, and grasslands, where they forage for a wide variety of food, including insects, eggs, fruits, and small animals. Some tegus, like the Red Tegu, can be tamed and kept as pets due to their intelligence and social behavior. However, they require a lot of space and specialized care to thrive in captivity.
Gila Monsters & Beaded Lizards (Family: Helodermatidae)
Gila Monsters and Beaded Lizards are the only venomous lizards native to North America. Unlike venomous snakes that inject venom through fangs, these lizards deliver venom through grooves in their teeth while chewing on their prey. Their venom is not typically fatal to humans but causes intense pain. They are slow-moving but rely on their strong bite as a defense mechanism.
These lizards are found in the arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico, living in deserts and scrublands. Gila Monsters and Mexican Beaded Lizards have thick, beaded scales that help reduce water loss in their dry habitats. They primarily feed on eggs, small mammals, and birds. Due to their slow metabolism, they can go weeks without eating.
Glass Lizards (Genus: Ophisaurus)
Glass lizards are legless lizards that closely resemble snakes, but they can be distinguished by their movable eyelids and external ear openings, features that snakes lack. Despite their snake-like appearance, they have rigid bodies and cannot coil like true snakes. Their name comes from their fragile tails, which can break into multiple pieces as a defense mechanism when threatened.
These lizards are found in grasslands, forests, and sandy 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 primarily feed on insects, snails, and small vertebrates, helping to control pest populations in their ecosystems.
Wall Lizards (Family: Lacertidae)
Wall lizards are small, agile lizards often seen darting across stone walls, tree trunks, and rocky surfaces. They have long tails, slender bodies, and well-developed limbs, allowing them to climb rough surfaces with ease. Many species are territorial and use body movements, such as head-bobbing and push-ups, to communicate with rivals 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 widely distributed across Europe and has even been introduced to North America. Another species, the Sand Lizard, is known for its striking green coloration during the breeding season. These lizards mainly consume insects, spiders, and small invertebrates.
Night Lizards (Family: Xantusiidae)
Night lizards are small, secretive reptiles that are nocturnal and rarely seen in the wild. Unlike many other lizards, they have smooth, granular scales and large eyes adapted for low-light environments. They are unique among lizards because some species exhibit viviparity, meaning they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs.
These lizards are primarily found in Mexico, Central America, and the southwestern United States, where they hide under bark, rocks, and desert vegetation during the day. Species like the Desert Night Lizard and Cuban Night Lizard rely on stealth and camouflage to avoid predators. Their diet consists of small insects, ants, termites, and spiders.
Dwarf Geckos (Genus: Sphaerodactylus)
Dwarf geckos are the smallest lizards in the world, with some species measuring only 2 cm (0.8 inches) in length. They have smooth scales, large eyes, and delicate toes adapted for climbing. Unlike larger geckos, they do not have sticky toe pads but instead rely on agility and small size for survival.
These tiny lizards are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. The Jaragua Dwarf Gecko, one of the smallest vertebrates on Earth, inhabits the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Another species, the Ashy Gecko, is commonly found in Cuba and the southeastern U.S. Dwarf geckos primarily feed on tiny insects, such as ants and mites.
Spiny Lizards (Genus: Sceloporus)
Spiny lizards are medium-sized, rough-scaled reptiles known for their keeled (spiny) scales that provide extra protection against predators. Males often have bright blue patches on their throats and bellies, which they use in territorial displays. They are fast-moving and prefer to bask in the sun on rocks, tree trunks, or fence posts.
Native to North and Central America, spiny lizards are commonly found in deserts, forests, and rocky habitats. The Western Fence Lizard, also known as the “Blue Belly Lizard,” is widespread in the western United States and plays a role in reducing Lyme disease by killing infected ticks. The Texas Spiny Lizard is another well-known species, often seen clinging to tree bark. These lizards primarily feed on insects, beetles, and small arthropods.
Collared Lizards (Genus: Crotaphytus)
Collared lizards are named for the distinct black bands around their necks, resembling a collar. These lizards are known for their powerful hind legs and the ability to run on two legs at high speeds when escaping predators. They have brightly colored bodies, with males often displaying vivid blues, greens, and yellows to attract mates.
Native to North America, collared lizards are commonly found in rocky, arid regions and desert landscapes. They are agile hunters, feeding on insects, small 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 pattern.
Plated Lizards (Family: Gerrhosauridae)
Plated lizards are heavily armored reptiles, covered in thick, overlapping scales that resemble a suit of armor. Their robust bodies and strong legs make them excellent burrowers, allowing them to seek refuge underground during extreme heat. Some species can grow quite large, with the Giant Plated Lizard reaching up to 70 cm (27 inches) in length.
These lizards are primarily found in Africa, inhabiting savannas, rocky terrains, and dry forests. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects, small vertebrates, fruits, and vegetation. The Sudan Plated Lizard is a popular species in the pet trade due to its hardy nature and calm temperament.
Caiman Lizards (Genus: Dracaena)
Caiman lizards are semi-aquatic reptiles that closely resemble caimans due to their thick, ridged scales and powerful tails adapted for swimming. These lizards have strong jaws designed for crushing the shells of their primary prey—snails and crustaceans. Their green bodies and reddish heads provide excellent camouflage among riverbank vegetation.
Native to South America, caiman lizards are found in swamps, flooded forests, and slow-moving rivers. They are excellent swimmers and often bask on branches overhanging the water. The Northern Caiman Lizard and Paraguayan Caiman Lizard are the most well-known species, often seen in the Amazon Basin.
Earless Lizards (Genus: Holbrookia)
Earless lizards are small, fast-moving reptiles that lack external ear openings, giving them a smooth, streamlined head. Despite their name, they can still hear but rely more on vibrations than typical sound waves. They have slender bodies, long tails, and cryptic coloration, helping them blend into their surroundings.
These lizards are native to North America, particularly in deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. They are diurnal hunters, actively foraging for insects, spiders, and small invertebrates during the day. The Lesser Earless Lizard and Greater Earless Lizard are two common species found in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Horned Lizards (Genus: Phrynosoma)
Horned lizards are short, stocky reptiles covered in spiky scales, giving them the appearance of tiny dragons. Their flattened bodies and camouflage make them well-adapted to desert environments. Some species have a unique defense mechanism—they can squirt blood from their eyes to deter predators.
These lizards are found in North and Central America, primarily in dry, sandy, or rocky habitats. They primarily feed on ants, using their specialized tongues to catch prey efficiently. The Texas Horned Lizard is one of the most iconic species, while the Short-Horned Lizard is known for its ability to endure cold temperatures.
