Quick Answer
Florida has more lizard species than any other US state, with over 50 species of which more than half are non-native. Native lizards include the Green Anole, Carolina Anole, and the Florida Scrub Lizard. Invasive species include the Brown Anole (most common urban lizard), the Cuban Anole (large, aggressive, with a red throat fan), the Nile Monitor (up to 6 feet), and the Argentine Black and White Tegu (up to 4 feet). The Green Iguana is an invasive species causing significant damage in South Florida.
Florida Lizard Identification Guide
Florida's warm climate and international ports have made it a hotspot for introduced lizard species. Today, more than half of Florida's lizard species are non-native. Identifying them is important for understanding the ecological impact and for distinguishing harmless species from invasive ones that may require reporting.
Common Florida Lizards Comparison
| Species | Size | Native? | Color | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Anole | 5-8 inches | Native | Green/brown (changes) | Trees, bushes, gardens statewide |
| Brown Anole | 5-7 inches | Invasive | Brown with light pattern | Ground level, walls, sidewalks statewide |
| Cuban Anole | 8-12 inches | Invasive | Green or brown, light stripes | Trees, shrubs, South Florida |
| Knight Anole | 12-18 inches | Invasive | Bright green, yellow stripe | Trees, South Florida |
| Green Iguana | 3-5 ft | Invasive | Green (adults), brown (young) | Trees, near water, South Florida |
| Nile Monitor | 3-6 ft | Invasive | Dark with yellow spots | Near water, SW Florida |
| Argentine Tegu | 2-4 ft | Invasive | Black and white bands | Open areas, Central/South Florida |
| Florida Scrub Lizard | 3-5 inches | Native | Gray/brown with blue patches | Sandy scrub habitats, Central Florida |
Native Lizards: The Ones to Protect
Green Anole
The Green Anole is Florida's only native anole species. It can change color from bright green to brown. It is found on trees, bushes, and fences. Males have a pink throat fan (dewlap). It is smaller than the invasive Brown Anole and prefers higher perches.
Florida Scrub Lizard
The Florida Scrub Lizard is a threatened species found only in Florida's sandy scrub habitats. It has a gray-brown body with a blue patch on each side. It is habitat-specialized and has declined significantly due to habitat loss.
Invasive Lizards: The Problem Species
Brown Anole
The Brown Anole is the most common lizard in urban Florida. It is native to Cuba and the Bahamas. It has outcompeted the native Green Anole in many areas. It is brown with a light pattern on the back and has a yellow/orange throat fan (males). It is found at ground level and on low walls.
Green Iguana
Green Iguanas are large (3-5 ft) herbivorous lizards that have become a major pest in South Florida. They damage landscaping, dig burrows that undermine foundations, and leave droppings on docks and seawalls. They are not aggressive but can cause serious injury with their tail whip and bite.
Argentine Black and White Tegu
The Argentine Tegu is a large invasive lizard in Central and South Florida. It is omnivorous and has been known to eat the eggs of ground-nesting birds and turtles, including threatened species. It is black with white bands and can be aggressive when cornered.
FAQ: Florida Lizard Identification
Are Florida lizards dangerous?
Most Florida lizards are harmless. The Nile Monitor and Argentine Tegu can deliver painful bites. The Green Iguana can cause injury with its tail. None are venomous.
What should I do if I see a Nile Monitor or Tegu?
Report sightings of Nile Monitors and Argentine Tegus to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). These are invasive species that should be removed.
Professional Wildlife Removal in Florida
If you need professional wildlife removal or pest control services in Florida, our local guides cover the following cities:
- Miami, FL — Wildlife & Pest Identification Guide
- Orlando, FL — Wildlife & Pest Identification Guide
- Tampa, FL — Wildlife & Pest Identification Guide
For help identifying the specific animal causing damage in your yard, see our What Animal Is Digging Holes in My Florida Yard? guide.
Sources: US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Wildlife Services, state wildlife agencies, CDC, academic extension services. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional wildlife management advice.