So You Think You Want to See a Lizard in Illinois? A Guide for the Enthusiastic (or Mildly Curious)
Let's face it, Illinois isn't exactly the first place that springs to mind when you think "reptile hotspot." But hey, those sunshine-baked deserts and crocodile-infested swamps aren't the only places where scaly friends chill. Illinois has its fair share of fascinating lizards, from speedy racers to masters of disguise. Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the not-so-secret world of reptilian residents in the Prairie State!
The Usual Gang: Illinois' Native Lizard All-Stars
- The Speedy Gonzales of the Lizard World: The Six-lined Racerunner. This little guy lives up to its name, blurring across grasslands and fields at lightning speed. Don't blink, or you might miss it!
- The Little Brown Schlub (But We Love Them Anyway): The Little Brown Skink. Don't let the name fool you, these quick and curious critters are more interesting than their title suggests. Plus, they're the smallest lizard in Illinois, so that's kind of adorable.
- The Eastern Fence Lizard: This classic lizard is a master climber, scaling rocks, fences (you guessed it!), and trees with impressive agility. Look for their push-up displays during mating season, it's like a miniature reptilian bodybuilder competition!
- The Legless Wonder: The Slender Glass Lizard. Okay, so technically it's not a snake (elongated legless body? Check. Forked tongue? Check. Nope, still a lizard!), but this sneaky fella deserves a mention. It spends most of its time underground, which explains why sightings are rare.
Bonus Round: The Common Five-lined Skink. These guys are all about blending in, sporting a cool camouflage pattern that makes them practically invisible amongst fallen leaves.
The New Kids on the Block: Illinois' Adopted Lizards
- The Eastern Collared Lizard: This spunky lizard with a distinctive orange collar wasn't originally from Illinois, but some hitchhikers decided to make themselves at home in the southern part of the state.
- The Mediterranean Gecko: Another adopted resident, this tiny gecko is more likely to be found gracing the walls of buildings in southern Illinois than sunning itself on rocks.
Important Note: While these adopted lizards are interesting, it's important to remember that they can be disruptive to the native ecosystem.
So You Spotted a Lizard in Illinois, Now What?
First things first: admire it from a safe distance! These are wild animals, and it's best to observe them without stressing them out. Snapping a picture with your phone is a great way to capture the moment (lizard paparazzi, anyone?).
Here are some additional tips:
- Leave them be: Don't try to handle or chase the lizard.
- Respect their habitat: If you see a lizard basking on a rock, don't move the rock!
- Spread the word: If you see a lizard you can't identify, there are plenty of online resources and local experts who can help.
Frequently Asked Questions: Becoming an Illinois Lizard Spotting Pro
How to identify a lizard in Illinois?
There are many resources available online and through local nature organizations that can help you identify lizards based on their appearance and habitat.
How to attract lizards to my yard?
Creating a habitat with rocks, logs, and brush piles can attract lizards looking for shelter and basking spots.
How to tell the difference between a lizard and a snake?
Lizards typically have four legs and eyelids, while snakes don't. However, the legless glass lizard can be tricky! Look for external ear holes on a lizard, which snakes lack.
How to care for an injured lizard?
If you find an injured lizard, the best course of action is to contact a wildlife rehabilitation center.
How to become a lizard expert?
Keep observing, researching, and learning! There's always something new to discover in the fascinating world of lizards.
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