Lizards are common visitors to homes, especially in warmer climates. They often enter seeking food, shelter, or simply by accident. If you’re wondering how long a lizard can live in your house, it’s important to understand their needs and behavior indoors. This knowledge helps you decide whether to keep them as natural pest controllers or remove them humanely.
Common House Lizards and Their Lifespans
Many lizard species adapt well to indoor environments, with some common types including:
- House Geckos: Known for their sticky feet and nocturnal habits, they typically live 5-10 years indoors.
- Anoles: Small and agile, anoles can survive up to 4-8 years inside homes.
- Skinks: Though less common indoors, skinks can live 7-12 years if conditions are favorable.
Lizard lifespans indoors depend on available food, water, and safety from predators.
Survival Needs of Lizards Indoors
Food Sources Available in Homes
Lizards are insectivores, feeding primarily on flies, mosquitoes, spiders, and other small bugs commonly found indoors. The abundance of prey affects how long they can survive.
Water and Humidity
Lizards also need water, usually obtained from droplets, damp surfaces, or humidity. Dry indoor environments can shorten their survival.
Environmental Factors Affecting Indoor Lizard Survival
Temperature plays a vital role. Lizards are cold-blooded and rely on warmth to regulate their body functions. Rooms that are too cold or too hot can stress lizards. Light cycles and availability of hiding spots also influence their well-being.
How Long Can Lizards Live Indoors?
Generally, if food, water, and shelter are available, lizards can live several years indoors, commonly 3 to 10 years, depending on species and conditions. Without adequate resources, survival may only last a few days to weeks.
Risks and Concerns of Lizards Living in the House
While lizards generally do not harm humans, concerns include:
- Droppings that may stain surfaces
- Minor damage if they hide in electrical areas
- Unwanted surprise sightings causing distress
How to Safely Remove Lizards from Your Home
- Use gentle capture techniques with a container and paper
- Release them outdoors far from your home
- Avoid harmful chemicals or traps
Preventing Lizards from Entering Your House
Seal cracks, fix door sweeps, use fine mesh on vents, and minimize indoor insects to reduce attraction.
Benefits of Lizards Indoors
Lizards naturally control insect populations, reducing pests without chemicals.
Common Myths About Lizards Indoors
- Lizards are neither dangerous or venomous — most are harmless
- They cause serious damage, usually false
- They are dirty — they help keep the home clean by eating bugs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long can a lizard survive without food inside a house?
Typically up to 2 weeks, depending on species and hydration.
2. Are lizards harmful to pets or children?
Most are harmless, but watch for small pets that might try to eat them.
3. What attracts lizards into homes?
Food (insects), warmth, and shelter.
4. Can lizards survive in cold houses?
Cold slows them down and can be fatal if prolonged.
5. How do I get rid of lizards humanely?
Capture gently and release outside; reduce food and entry points.
6. Do lizards reproduce inside homes?
Rarely; they usually lay eggs outdoors.
Conclusion: Living Peacefully with or Without Lizards
Understanding how long can a lizard live in your house helps you manage their presence wisely. Lizards can live from days to years indoors depending on conditions. Whether you keep them as natural pest controllers or remove them humanely, providing a safe, healthy home for both you and the lizard is key.
