20 Most Common Lizards in Texas (With Images)

There is an astounding variety of lizard species in Texas’s varied ecology, each with its own special traits and adaptations. These reptiles, which include the well-known Texas Horned Lizard and the Texas Spiny Lizard, are essential to preserving the delicate balance of nature. The many kinds of lizards that may be found in Texas, their habitats, and their intriguing habits will all be covered in this article. Come along with us as we explore the world of lizards in Texas via this scientific expedition.

Key Points:

Numerous lizard species, including the Texas Spiny Lizard, Texas Horned Lizard, Whiptail Lizard, and geckos, may be found in Texas.
Texas is home to several reptiles such as snakes, turtles, alligators, and lizards.
Texas is home to a wide variety of environments and species of lizards, such as the Eastern Collared Lizard, Texas Alligator Lizard, Skinks, and Anoles.
The Slender Glass Lizard and the Texas Banded Gecko are two distinctive characteristics of lizards found in Texas.

Texas Spiny Lizard

Because of its distinctive qualities, the Texas Spiny Lizard is an interesting species to research in the state’s many environments. This species of lizard, also called Sceloporus olivaceus, is native to the state of Texas and may be found in a variety of environments, including rocky places, woods, and deserts. The spiky look of the Texas Spiny Lizard, together with a row of larger scales running down its back, make it easy to identify. It can reach a maximum length of 8 inches and has a slim build. Because of their remarkable adaptability and capacity to alter their hue, these lizards can easily blend in with their environment. Their primary mode of food is insects and spiders, making them insectivores. The ecological equilibrium of Texas’s habitats is significantly preserved by the Texas spiny lizard.

Texas Horned Lizard

The Texas Horned Lizard is found not just in Texas but also in other southwestern states in the United States. One of the most well-known and iconic native lizards in Texas is this reptile, often referred to as the “horny toad.” Three salient features of the Texas Horned Lizard are as follows:
The Texas Horned Lizard is a visually striking and unusual animal. It may reach a maximum length of 4 to 5 inches and has a stocky body coated in rough, pointed scales. Its name comes from the crown of horn-like spines that decorate its head, which is one of its most distinctive traits.
food: The Texas Horned Lizard is mostly an insectivorous species, which means that ants, beetles, and other tiny invertebrates make up its food. It precisely and accurately captures prey with its lengthy, sticky tongue.
Defensive Adaptations: To defend itself against predators, this lizard has evolved a number of defensive systems. It can make itself look bigger when attacked, and it can also discharge blood from its eyes to scare off would-be assailants. Its prickly covering also adds another line of defense against predators.
The Texas Horned Lizard plays a significant role in the environment by regulating insect populations and preserving the natural equilibrium of the area.

Gecko

Geckos may be seen across Texas’s many terrain, adapting well to their circumstances. In Texas, geckos are a kind of lizard that may be found in grasslands, urban areas, and dry deserts. These tiny reptiles can survive in a variety of locations because they have adapted to their surroundings. Texas geckos have a variety of body colors that help them blend in with their surroundings. While some species have bright colors like green or yellow that help them blend in with the vegetation, others have gray or brown scales that help them stand out against rocks or tree trunks. Because of this adaptation, geckos are better able to conceal themselves from predators and engage in hunting by ambushing unsuspecting victims. These nimble animals have special qualities that help them survive. Because of specific features on their feet called lamellae, gecko feet can easily climb walls and ceilings, among other vertical surfaces. They also have an edge over predators because they can regrow lost tails.

Whiptail

Furthermore, a fascinating kind of reptiles found across Texas are whiptail lizards. These lizards, also called whiptail skinks, are distinguished by their short tails, long, lean bodies, and swift movements. They live in a range of environments, including as grasslands, forests, and deserts, and are mostly insectivorous. Because several species of whiptail lizards are parthenogenetic—that is, able to breed without the need for males—they are well-known for their unusual reproductive habits. They are able to quickly colonize new places and adapt to various habitats according to their reproductive technique. In addition, whiptail lizards have a diverse array of markings and colorations that help them blend in with their surroundings and fend off predators. Their existence in Texas contributes to the region’s rich diversity of reptiles.

Texas Alligator Lizard

To what extent are Texas Alligator Lizards distributed across the state of Texas? The lizard species known as the Texas Alligator Lizard (Gerrhonotus infernalis) is indigenous to the state of Texas. It is mostly found in the western parts of the state, namely in the Edwards Plateau and Trans-Pecos areas. The following three points pertain to the Texas Alligator Lizard:
Habitat: steep places like cliffs, canyons, and steep slopes are usually home to these lizards. They like environments with plenty of flora and shelter so they can hide and take refuge when necessary.
Look: Up to 12 inches in length, Texas alligator lizards are distinguished by their long, lean bodies. They have a characteristic flattened skull and coarse, keeled scales. Although they may have a variety of colors, they often have a mottled pattern of green, gray, or brown that helps them blend in with their environment.
Behavior: During the day is when Texas Alligator Lizards are most active. They are adept climbers and often seen lounging in trees or on rocks. As insectivores, these lizards mostly consume insects and other invertebrates in their diet.

Eastern Collared Lizard

The vivid coloring and strong defensive displays of the Eastern Collared Lizard are well-known features. This whiptail species lizard may be found in the dry parts of Texas. It gets its name from a characteristic design on its neck that looks like a collar. Male Eastern Collared Lizards may grow up to 12 inches in length, making them bigger than other lizards found in Texas. Its limbs are powerful, its body is large, and its tail is lengthy. The Eastern Collared Lizard displays territorial behavior, much like the common side-blotched lizard. Males use body inflation, head bobbing, and push-ups to keep others out of their areas. These exhibits are designed to scare off competitors and draw in partners. Observing the Eastern Collared Lizard in Texas’s varied ecology is intriguing due to its distinct behavioral quirks and remarkable look.

Skink

Texas skinks are well-known for their capacity to lose their tails in order to protect themselves from predators. Skinks are able to divert attention and flee from any predators because to this trait, known as autotomy. There are several skink species in Texas, and they all have different traits and environments.
Slender Glass Lizard: The slender glass lizard is really a legless reptile, despite its name. Its body is long and thin, like that of a snake, and when a predator grabs hold of it, its tail may break off with ease.
wide-headed Skink: The thick body and wide head of this skink are its distinguishing features. It may be found in a variety of environments, including as meadows and woodlands, and is well-known for its capacity to climb trees and enjoy the sun.
Four-lined Skink: The four-lined skink gets its name from the four different bright stripes that span the length of its body. It feeds on insects and tiny invertebrates and is often found close to water sources, such as ponds and streams.
Together with the Great Plains skink, these skink species add to the variety of lizards found in Texas and serve crucial functions in the ecology as both predators and prey.

Anole

With their vivid colors and distinctive behavioral characteristics, anoles are an interesting species of lizards that are often seen in Texas. The green anole, or Anolis carolinensis, is one of the most well-known anole species in Texas. The capacity to change color is a well-known characteristic of these little lizards, which helps them interact with other anoles and fit in with their environment. The green anole’s natural color is pale green, but under stress or during mating displays, it may become brown or gray. Their long tail, thin body, and sticky toe pads allow them to stick to and climb on a variety of surfaces. Anoles are nocturnal animals, active during the day, and they inhabit a range of environments, such as urban areas, gardens, and woodlands. Insects, tiny invertebrates, and even small vertebrates make up their main food. Because of their distinct qualities and versatility, anoles are now a common sight in Texas and a source of intrigue for those who like the natural world.

Texas Banded Gecko

What distinguishes the Texas Banded Gecko from other lizard species that inhabit the state of Texas? For a number of reasons, the Texas Banded Gecko (Coleonyx brevis) is a unique and intriguing species of lizard. Among the many different lizard species found in Texas, this particular gecko stands out for the following three reasons:
Physical characteristics: At 4 to 5 inches in length, the Texas Banded Gecko is a tiny lizard. It has a unique look, with broad, dark brown bands running over its back and tail and covering its light tan or yellowish body. Its dry environment provides great concealment for these bands.
Nocturnal Behavior: The Texas Banded Gecko is mostly nocturnal, in contrast to many other lizard species found in Texas. At dark, it comes out of its shelter to search for food, which is mostly tiny insects. It differs from lizard species that are active during the day by being able to survive in the dark.
The Texas Banded Gecko prefers rocky settings, canyons, and desert scrublands due to its adaptability to dry climates. It is especially well-known for its capacity to burrow into the earth and find cover from very hot or cold conditions throughout the day.

Slender Glass Lizard

Although it may be found in many parts of Texas, the southern area is where sightings of the Slender Glass Lizard are most frequent. This legless reptile also referred to as the “glass snake,” resembles a snake in appearance. But it’s really a legless lizard, not a real snake. With its long, thin body, the thin Glass Lizard can travel quickly across sandy soils and grassy places. Its long tail, which is sometimes confused for its head, is one of its distinguishing characteristics. This lizard is usually brown or gray in color and has a glossy sheen that earns it the nickname “glass lizard.” It can detach its tail when threatened, which gives it the ability to flee and leaves the predator with only its tail as a protection mechanism. See the table below for further information on the traits of the Slender Glass Lizard:
Typical Characteristics
Length up to three feet
Habitat: Sand dunes, forests, and grasslands
Food tiny rodents, insects, and other tiny creatures
Adding to the variety of lizards in Texas is the interesting Slender Glass Lizard. It is a fascinating animal to research and watch in the field due to its distinct adaptations and preferred habitats.

Prairie Lizard

The variety of lizards in Texas is further enhanced by the Prairie Lizard, another fascinating species that is found across the state in addition to the Slender Glass Lizard. The scientific name for the prairie lizard is Sceloporus consobrinus, and it is often found in open forests, meadows, and prairies. The following three details about the prairie lizard are fascinating:
Physical characteristics: At five to eight inches in length, the prairie lizard is a medium-sized reptile. Its slim body is covered with rough scales, and its nose is sharp. Although the color of the Prairie Lizard varies, it usually has black stripes running down its back and a base color of brown or grayish-brown.
Behavior: The Prairie Lizard is a diurnal species, meaning it is active throughout the day, much like many other lizards. It is a quick climber and often found lounging on tree branches or boulders. The Prairie Lizard may flee swiftly by sprinting or scrambling into surrounding foliage when it feels threatened.
Diet: Being an insectivore, the prairie lizard mostly eats a range of tiny invertebrates, including worms, spiders, and insects. It captures and devours its victim with the help of its powerful jaws and keen fangs.
Together with other species like the common five-lined skink and the slim glass lizard, the prairie lizard contributes significantly to the ecological balance of lizards in Texas due to its distinctive traits and adaptations.

Common Side-blotched Lizard

The Common Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana) is one fascinating type of lizard that can be found in Texas. This lizard has a distinctive mating technique that is determined by the size and coloring of each particular male. Little reptiles like the Common Side-blotched Lizard are widespread in Texas and other regions of North America. Its unique coloring, which includes a black patch or stripe on its side, is what makes it stand out. This species has three distinct neck colors in males: orange, yellow, and blue. Every hue has a distinct mating strategy linked with it. The dominating “ultra-males,” orange-throated males, guard huge areas with many females. “Sneaker males,” like as yellow-throated males, impersonate females in order to attract potential mates. “Satellite males,” like as blue-throated males, impersonate youngsters in order to attract mates. The Common Side-blotched Lizard’s intricate mating system enables it to enhance reproductive success in a variety of Texas habitats.

Checker lizard

Texas is home to a number of lizard species, Checker being one of them. Known by its scientific name Aspidoscelis gularis, the checker lizard is a tiny reptile that is often found in southern Texas. Three essential features of the Checker lizard are as follows:
Look: Checkers are medium-sized lizards, with a length of around 7 to 9 inches. Their name comes from their distinctive checkerboard patterns, which are a pattern of alternating bands of bright and dark on a thin body. The checker pattern may be colored in shades of brown, gray, or green.
Habitat: Open grasslands, brushy regions, and forests with loose soil are the ideal places for checkers to live. They may often be seen lounging on rocks, tree trunks, or fences since they are skilled climbers.
Food and Behavior: Checkers are largely invertebrates and tiny insects since they are insectivores. They are active throughout the day since they are diurnal. Checkers are renowned for their rapid reflexes and capacity to burrow into loose dirt or dive into adjacent plants to swiftly escape predators.
The Checker lizard contributes significantly to the variety of reptiles found in Texas, while not being as well-known as other lizards like glass lizards, eastern collared lizards, or green anoles.

Brown Anole

The Brown Anole, a native of the Caribbean, has successfully established itself in Texas by way of naturalization. Known by its scientific name, Anolis sagrei, this lizard was probably brought to Texas as a pet and is now often seen in suburban and urban settings. The Brown Anole is a tiny lizard that is usually between five and eight inches long. Its brown coloring, which ranges from light tan to dark brown, and its capacity to change color are what define it. Due to its extreme adaptability, this species may be found in a wide range of environments, including as parks, gardens, and even within structures. The Brown Anole and other lizards that are often seen in Texas are contrasted in the following table:
Type of Animal Size Color Native Range
Brown Antelope, 5-8 inches in length, Caribbean
Southeast United States Green Anole, Green, 5-8 inches
Texas Horned Lizard: 3-5 inches; brown and tan; Texas and adjacent states
Southern United States; six-lined Racerunner; gray or brown; 5-8 inches
The Brown Anole’s capacity to adapt and flourish in new habitats is shown by its existence in Texas. Its successful emergence in the state serves as evidence of how human activity affects species dispersal.

Long-nosed Leopard Lizard

Over the last ten years, the Long-nosed Leopard Lizard population in Texas has expanded gradually, demonstrating the species’ effective adaption to the local habitat. These lizards are indigenous to the southwest region of the United States and northern Mexico. Their scientific name is Gambelia wislizenii. They get their name from their long snout, which helps them with their eating habits by enabling them to precisely catch insects. Since their natural habitats are dry grasslands and deserts, Texas is a perfect place for the Long-nosed Leopard Lizard population to flourish. It is crucial to take into account the following in order to comprehend the importance of their growing numbers:
Conservation initiatives: The habitat of Texas’s Long-nosed Leopard Lizards has been preserved thanks in large part to conservation efforts. Their number has grown as a result of the creation of protected areas and the use of land management techniques.
Climate adaptation: The resilience of Long-nosed Leopard Lizards is shown by their capacity to adjust to the climate of Texas. They are able to endure the region’s high temperatures and little water supply because of their physiological and behavioral adaptations.
food availability: The Texas ecosystem’s profusion of tiny arthropods and insects, which make up ideal food, is probably what has led to the Long-nosed Leopard Lizard population’s rapid growth. Their survival and successful reproduction are dependent on the availability of enough food supplies.

Common Five-lined Skink

The Common Five-lined Skink, a significant lizard species found in Texas, is distinguished by its unique patterns and quick movements. This type of skink is distinguished by five different black lines that run the length of its body, as the name would imply. The length of the Common Five-lined Skink is usually between 5 and 8 inches, making it a medium-sized lizard. Its silky scales and sleek, slim body enable it to travel smoothly and quickly across a variety of terrains. Across Texas, this species is mostly found in meadows and forested regions where it may be seen sunbathing on logs or rocks. The primary foods consumed by the Common Five-lined Skink are insects, spiders, and other tiny invertebrates. It is an interesting reptile to research in the context of lizards in Texas because of its adaptability to many settings and its eye-catching patterns.

Striped Whiptail

A prominent species of lizard found in Texas is the Striped Whiptail. These lizards have long tails and thin bodies. They are tiny, growing to a length of 6 to 8 inches. They are colored with vivid, alternating stripes of white or yellow over a backdrop of either dark brown or black. The Striped Whiptail is characterized by its unique color patterns and exceptional movement agility. The Striped Whiptail is difficult to capture due to its quick movements, as it darts in a zigzag manner over the ground. These nocturnal, mostly insectivorous lizards consume a wide range of tiny invertebrates for their food. In Texas, they are often found in rocky, dry environments including scrublands, grasslands, and deserts. The Striped Whiptail plays a significant role in the variety of lizards found in Texas and supports the region’s overall ecological equilibrium.

Rose-bellied Lizard

Within the varied lizard population of Texas, the Rose-bellied Lizard is a visually remarkable species due to its unusual patterns and brilliant hue. This lizard, whose scientific name is Sceloporus variabilis, is mostly found in the southern parts of Texas, where it lives in semi-arid and dry habitats including grasslands, scrublands, and deserts. The length of the Rose-bellied Lizard’s tail makes up around 60% of its overall length, which may reach up to 5 inches. Its vividly colored body is distinguished by a blend of pink, orange, and brown tones that effectively blend with its natural surroundings. To further add to its unusual look, this lizard has a row of spines along the length of its back. The Rose-bellied Lizard is an ectothermic species, meaning that its body temperature is controlled by its surroundings, much like other lizard species. It eats a wide range of insects and other tiny invertebrates as its primary food source. Because of the state’s diversified environment and the policies put in place to safeguard its habitat, the lizard population in Texas is steady. Researching the rose-bellied lizard helps us better appreciate Texas’s rich lizard biodiversity and the value of conservation initiatives to save these endangered species.

Crevice Spiny Lizard

A frequent tiny reptile among Texas’s steep cliffs and crevices is the Crevice Spiny Lizard. The scientific name for this species of lizard is Sceloporus poinsettii, and it belongs to the Phrynosomatidae family. Three salient features of the Crevice Spiny Lizard are as follows:
Habitat: The majority of these lizards may be found in Texas, especially in the southern areas like Laredo. Their slim bodies and keen claws allow them to easily maneuver between the cracks and rocks of their rocky environment, where they are well suited.
Crevice Spiny Lizards are distinguished by their unique look. Their bodies are usually brown or grayish-brown, with black crossbands and spines covered in sharp scales. During territorial conflicts or courting, males often flaunt their bright blue neck patches.
Behavior: These lizards are fiercely territorial and nocturnal. They consume a wide range of tiny invertebrates, including spiders and insects. They can swiftly flee into small openings when attacked, fitting into small areas with their flattened bodies.
The intriguing and versatile Crevice Spiny Lizard is a native of Texas’ distinctive rocky environments.

Reptiles

Alligators, snakes, and turtles are just a few of the many reptiles that may be found in Texas’s many habitats. Reptiles flourish in the state because of its warm environment and variety of habitats. These three noteworthy reptiles may be found in Texas:
Horned Lizard: Often referred to as the “horned toad,” this recognizable reptile is well suited for Texas’s dry climate. The horned lizard is an amazing animal, distinguished by its spikey look and defensive ability to spew blood from its eyes.
The eastern region of the state is home to the elusive Texas Alligator Lizard. Its body is slim, its tail is lengthy, and its stripes are unique. The Texas alligator lizard is renowned for its ability to blend in with its environment and loves to live in wooded settings.
Eastern Collared Lizard: Native to Texas’ western areas, this lizard is distinguished for its eye-catching display activity and vivid colors. The males guard their area and entice potential mates with a conspicuous collar around their necks.
These and many more reptiles add to the vast variety of reptiles in Texas and provide important insights into the ecosystems of the region.

My encounters in Texas with lizards

I’ve had the chance to see and get up close with lizards in a variety of settings throughout my stay here in Texas. Numerous different kinds of lizards, such as the whiptail and anole lizards, may be found in Texas. In Texas, one may often see the anole, sometimes referred to as the green anole. These little lizards live in shrubs and trees, where they show off their vivid green coloring and put on powerful shows to demonstrate their authority. Conversely, whiptail lizards are renowned for their extraordinary quickness and dexterity. Mostly found in deserts and open grasslands, these lizards scurry over the ground in quest of food. My encounters with lizards in Texas have helped me to understand the distinctive characteristics and habits of these amazing animals.

Which Different Lizard Species Can Be Found in Texas?

There are many different kinds of lizards in Texas, and they all have different traits and adaptations. Studying the many species that may be found in Texas is crucial to understanding their ecology, behavior, and conservation requirements.

What Kind of Habitat Does the Texas Horned Lizard Prefer?

A recent topic in the study of lizard ecology is the Texas horned lizard’s preferred environment. For conservation efforts to be successful, it is imperative that this preference be understood, which necessitates a thorough research of variables including temperature, vegetation, and the availability of prey.

What Distinguishes Texas Lizards From Other Reptiles?

Texas’s lizards are distinct from other types of reptiles in a few respects. Their special abilities, such heat endurance and camouflage, enable them to flourish in the region’s varied habitats. Their different traits are also influenced by their reproductive tactics and food.

Are There Any Venomous Native Lizards in Texas?

Although Texas is home to a number of native lizard species, none of them are poisonous. Although many kinds of lizards seen in other regions of the globe are venomous, lizards found in Texas are not.

Could you tell me more about the Long-Nosed Leopard Lizard’s diet and behavior?

Western North America is home to the Gambelia wislizenii, or long-nosed leopard lizard. Its behavior is distinct, and its nutrition is particular. Our understanding of this intriguing animal may be substantially increased by comprehending its behavior and nutrition.

Commonly Asked Questions

Which Different Lizard Species Can Be Found in Texas?

There are many different kinds of lizards in Texas, and they all have different traits and adaptations. Studying the many species that may be found in Texas is crucial to understanding their ecology, behaviour, and conservation requirements.

What Kind of Habitat Does the Texas Horned Lizard Prefer?

A recent topic in the study of lizard ecology is the Texas horned lizard’s preferred environment. For conservation efforts to be successful, it is imperative that this preference be understood, which necessitates a thorough research of variables including temperature, vegetation, and the availability of prey.

What Distinguishes Texas Lizards From Other Reptiles?

Texas’s lizards are distinct from other types of reptiles in a few respects. Their special abilities, such heat endurance and camouflage, enable them to flourish in the region’s varied habitats. Their different traits are also influenced by their reproductive tactics and food.

Are There Any Venomous Native Lizards in Texas?

Although Texas is home to a number of native lizard species, none of them are poisonous. Although many kinds of lizards seen in other regions of the globe are venomous, lizards found in Texas are not.

Could you tell me more about the Long-Nosed Leopard Lizard’s diet and behaviour?

Western North America is home to the Gambelia wislizenii, or long-nosed leopard lizard. Its behaviour is distinct, and its nutrition is particular. Our understanding of this intriguing animal may be substantially increased by comprehending its behaviour and nutrition.

Which reptiles can one find in Texas?

Texas is home to a variety of lizard species, such as the marbled whiptail, southern prairie skink, broad-headed skink, great plains skink, six-lined racerunner, Chihuahuan spotted whiptail, keeled earless lizard, little brown skink, checkered whiptail, common checkered whiptail, and little brown skink.

Is there any venomous lizard in Texas?

No, there are no venomous lizards in Texas.

What features distinguish the Chihuahuan spotted whiptail?

One kind of lizard found in Texas is the Chihuahuan spotted whiptail. It mostly consumes insects, and its rear legs are longer than its front ones.

What distinguishes the keeled earless lizard from others?

A kind of lizard found in Texas is the keeled earless lizard. Its back has ridges along it, which give it its name. Its main food source is insects.

What is the story behind the little brown skink, please?

One kind of lizard found in Texas is the small brown skink. Its body is thin and tiny. Its main food sources are tiny invertebrates and insects.

What is the typical whiptail checkered?

Texas is home to the common checkered whiptail lizard. Its slim body and checkered pattern are what define it. Its main food sources are tiny invertebrates and insects.

Are lizards regarded as invasive species in Texas?

No, lizards are not regarded as invasive species in Texas.

What reptile is Texas’s official state animal?

The Texas horned lizard is the official state reptile of Texas.

Do Texas lizards consume other lizards?

In Texas, some lizards, including the Chihuahuan spotted whiptail, have been known to consume other lizards.

What does a lizard’s dewlap serve as?

In lizards like the green anole, the dewlap serves as a means of display and communication.

Are There Any Lizard Species in Texas That Eagles Eat?

It’s interesting to note that no known species of lizards are expressly targeted by these majestic birds of prey when it comes to observations of eagles in Texas. In Texas, eagles prey mostly on fish, birds, and small animals. Lizards are unlikely to be a favourite food source for these magnificent animals because of their predatory behaviour, which favours bigger and more mobile prey.

Final Thoughts

A wide variety of lizard species may be found in Texas. These include the Whiptail, Striped Whiptail, Rose-bellied Lizard, Gecko, Texas Horned Lizard, Texas Spiny Lizard, and Crevice Spiny Lizard. Every species has distinct traits and adaptations that enable them to flourish in the climate of Texas. These lizards contribute to the region’s total biodiversity and perform significant functions in the ecology. To properly comprehend and save these amazing reptiles, further study and conservation work are required.