Getting rid of lizards in your home or garden can be done using a combination of preventive measures and humane removal methods. Here are some steps you can take to manage a lizard infestation:
- Remove their food source: Lizards primarily feed on insects, so reducing the presence of insects in and around your home can help deter them. Use insect repellents, traps, and keep your home clean to prevent insect infestations.
- Seal entry points: Check for any gaps or cracks in doors, windows, and walls where lizards may be entering your home. Seal these entry points using caulk or weatherstripping to prevent their access.
- Remove hiding spots: Lizards like to hide in cluttered areas. Declutter your home, especially in areas where you’ve seen lizards. Eliminating hiding spots can make your home less appealing to them.
- Use natural repellents: Some natural substances may deter lizards. These include:
- Garlic cloves: Place crushed garlic cloves around entry points and areas where you’ve seen lizards.
- Onion slices: Similar to garlic, you can place onion slices in lizard-prone areas.
- Pepper spray: Mix water and cayenne pepper or chili powder and spray it around the areas where lizards frequent.
- Keep lights off at night: Lizards are attracted to light sources, as they attract insects. Keep outdoor lights off or use yellow or sodium vapor lights that are less attractive to insects.
- Set up traps: You can use humane lizard traps to capture them. After trapping them, release them far from your home in an outdoor area.
- DIY lizard repellent spray: Create a homemade lizard repellent spray by mixing water with a few drops of essential oils like peppermint, citrus, or eucalyptus. Spray this mixture in lizard-prone areas.
- Use sticky traps: Sticky traps, like those used for catching mice or insects, can be placed in areas where lizards are commonly seen. When a lizard walks over the trap, it will become stuck, allowing you to remove and release it outside.
- Professional pest control: If the lizard infestation is severe or persistent, consider hiring a professional pest control service. They can assess the situation and use appropriate methods to remove the lizards from your property.
Remember that lizards are generally harmless and play a role in controlling insect populations. If you can tolerate their presence, it may be best to coexist with them. However, if they become a nuisance or pose a health concern, you can use these methods to manage the issue while ensuring their humane removal.