Have you ever wondered about the scaly creatures darting across rocks and trees in North Carolina? The Tar Heel State is home to a diverse array of lizards, each with its own unique features and behaviors.
From the treetops to your backyard, these reptiles play important roles in local ecosystems.
North Carolina boasts 11 species of lizards, none of which are venomous or pose any danger to humans.
You might spot the bright green anole changing colors on a fence or glimpse a fast-moving skink scurrying through fallen leaves.
Some lizards, like the eastern fence lizard, have even adapted to defend against invasive fire ants.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the wildlife in your area, learning about North Carolina’s lizards can be fascinating.
These resourceful reptiles have found ways to thrive in various habitats across the state, from coastal areas to mountain forests.
As you explore the outdoors, keep an eye out for these remarkable creatures that call North Carolina home.
Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
The green anole is a fascinating lizard you can find in North Carolina. These small reptiles grow to about 5-8 inches long.
You might spot them in various colors. They can appear bright green, brown, or a mix of both. Some even have dark streaks or spots on their skin.
Green anoles are masters of camouflage. They can change their color to blend in with their surroundings. This helps them hide from predators and sneak up on prey.
These lizards are active during the day. You’ll often see them basking in the sun on tree trunks or fences.
Anolis carolinensis is part of a larger group of Caribbean anoles. They’re all known as “green anoles,” even though they can change colors.
In North Carolina, you can find green anoles in many areas. They live in the coastal plain, piedmont, and foothills of the state.
Green anoles love to climb. You might spot them in:
- Trees
- Shrubs
- Vines
- Garden plants
These lizards eat small insects. They’re great for natural pest control in your garden.
If you’re lucky, you might see a male anole showing off his bright red dewlap.
This is a flap of skin under the throat used to attract females or scare off rivals.
Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus)
The Eastern fence lizard is a common sight in North Carolina. You might spot these lizards basking on rocks, logs, or fences in sunny areas.
These reptiles are medium-sized, usually growing 4-7 inches long. Their scales have a rough texture, giving them a spiny look.
Eastern fence lizards have interesting color patterns. Males often show bright blue patches on their bellies and throats. Females are usually less colorful, with brown or gray tones.
You can find these lizards in many habitats. They like dry, open woodlands with plenty of places to climb and sun themselves.
Sceloporus undulatus is the scientific name for this species. It’s part of the Phrynosomatidae family, which includes many North American lizards.
These lizards eat a variety of small insects. They’re skilled hunters, using quick movements to catch their prey.
If you want to see an Eastern fence lizard, look for them during warm months. They’re most active from spring through fall.
Coal Skink (Plestiodon anthracinus)
The Coal Skink is a small, elusive lizard found in North Carolina. You might spot this secretive creature on hillsides near streams in the western part of the state.
These lizards have a unique appearance. Their bodies are dark brown or black with four light stripes running down their backs. You’ll notice their slender build and short legs.
Coal Skinks are quite small. They typically measure between 3 to 5 inches in length. Their streamlined bodies help them move quickly through their habitat.
You’ll find Coal Skinks in moist, humid areas. They love hiding under rocks, fallen logs, and leaf litter. This makes them challenging to spot in the wild.
If you’re lucky enough to see one, you might notice:
- Short, well-developed legs
- A long tail
- Gray or brown background color
- Four white or yellowish stripes
Coal Skinks are part of the Plestiodon genus. This group includes several other skink species found in North America.
Remember, these lizards are shy. If you want to observe them, be patient and quiet. Look carefully in damp areas near streams in western North Carolina.
Five-Lined Skink (Plestiodon fasciatus)
The five-lined skink is a fascinating lizard you might spot in North Carolina. It’s one of the most common lizards in the eastern U.S.
You can identify this skink by its five light stripes running down its dark body. Young skinks have bright blue tails that fade as they grow older.
Adult five-lined skinks usually grow to 5-8 inches long. Males develop wider heads and reddish coloring on their jaws during breeding season.
These lizards love to bask in the sun. You’ll often find them on logs, rocks, or tree trunks in forests and near buildings.
Five-lined skinks eat mainly insects and spiders. They use their quick speed to catch prey.
If you’re lucky, you might see a female guarding her eggs. She’ll stay with them until they hatch, which is rare behavior for lizards.
In North Carolina, you can find these skinks in many habitats across the state. They’re active from spring through fall.
Remember, if you see one, it’s best to observe from a distance. If grabbed, they can drop their tails as a defense mechanism.
Broad-Headed Skink (Plestiodon laticeps)
If you’re exploring North Carolina’s forests, you might encounter the broad-headed skink, a fascinating lizard species. These skinks are among the largest in the region, growing up to 13 inches long.
You can identify adult males by their wide, triangular heads and striking orange-red coloration during breeding season. Females and juveniles often have striped patterns similar to other skink species.
Broad-headed skinks prefer wooded areas and are excellent climbers. You’ll often spot them basking on tree trunks or scurrying along branches.
These lizards are not dangerous to humans, but they can deliver a surprisingly strong bite if threatened. It’s best to observe them from a distance to avoid startling them.
Their diet consists mainly of insects and small invertebrates. You might see them hunting on the forest floor or in trees.
Broad-headed skinks play an important role in their ecosystem by controlling insect populations. They also serve as prey for various predators, including birds and snakes.
If you’re lucky, you might witness their unique mating behavior. Males engage in territorial displays and battles during breeding season, showcasing their vibrant colors.
Remember, these skinks are protected in North Carolina. Enjoy watching them in their natural habitat, but leave them undisturbed to thrive in the state’s diverse ecosystems.
Southeastern Five-Lined Skink (Plestiodon inexpectatus)
You might spot a Southeastern Five-Lined Skink in North Carolina’s forests. These lizards are small, usually measuring between 5.5 and 8.5 inches long.
Their most striking feature is the five light stripes running down their body on a dark background. As they age, males often develop an orange-brown color on their heads, especially during mating season.
You’ll find these skinks in various habitats. They like dry, wooded areas but can also live in pine forests, sandy swamps, and dune forests.
Don’t be surprised if you see them both on the ground and in trees. These agile lizards are excellent climbers.
The Southeastern Five-Lined Skink got its scientific name, inexpectatus, because it was unexpectedly discovered in the 1930s. Despite this late identification, it’s now known as one of the most common lizards in the southeastern U.S.
If you’re trying to identify one, look closely. They’re often confused with other skink species. The Southeastern Five-Lined Skink prefers drier habitats than its close relatives.
Ground Skink (Scincella lateralis)
The ground skink is a tiny lizard you might spot scurrying through North Carolina’s forests. These little reptiles only grow to 3-5.75 inches long, making them one of the smallest lizards in the state.
You’ll recognize ground skinks by their smooth, shiny appearance. Their color ranges from reddish-brown to light golden, often matching the leaf litter where they live. Look for a dark stripe along their sides.
Ground skinks prefer forested areas with plenty of leaves on the ground. You’re most likely to find them in hardwood or mixed hardwood forests. They love hiding in leaf litter and under logs.
These small, terrestrial skinks have an interesting adaptation. Their tails can detach easily, helping them escape predators. This is handy, as many animals like to snack on these tiny lizards.
If you want to spot a ground skink, you’ll need to be quick. They’re fast movers and excellent at hiding. Try gently lifting fallen leaves or small logs in wooded areas.
Remember to leave their habitat as you found it. Ground skinks play an important role in forest ecosystems, helping to control insect populations.
Six-Lined Racerunner (Aspidoscelis sexlineatus)
The six-lined racerunner is a fascinating lizard you might spot in North Carolina. Its name comes from the six yellow or green-yellow stripes that run down its body.
These lizards have a sleek, streamlined shape. Their bodies are usually dark green, brown, or black. Between the stripes, you’ll see dark-colored areas ranging from deep brown to black.
Six-lined racerunners are medium-sized lizards. They’re known for their speed and agility. You’ll often see them darting around in open, sunny areas.
In North Carolina, you’re most likely to find these lizards in the Coastal Plain. They love dry, sandy spots with some vegetation for cover.
Look for them near grass clumps or under small trees like wax myrtles. These provide shade and protection for the racerunners.
If you’re lucky enough to spot one, watch how quickly it moves! These lizards can run at impressive speeds, living up to their “racerunner” name.
Remember, six-lined racerunners are wild animals. It’s best to observe them from a distance and not try to catch or handle them.
Slender Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus attenuatus)
You might mistake the slender glass lizard for a snake at first glance. Don’t be fooled! This legless lizard is a unique creature found in North Carolina.
Slender glass lizards get their name from their fragile tails. They can break off their tail to escape predators, just like many other lizards.
These lizards prefer dry habitats. You’ll often find them in old fields and sandhills. They’re active during the day, hunting for food in open areas.
When not hunting, slender glass lizards like to hide. Look for them under boards or other debris. They’re masters of camouflage!
Slender glass lizards have some distinct features:
- Length: 22-42 inches
- Thin body
- Dark stripes along their back and tail
Their diet consists mainly of insects. They’re helpful in controlling pest populations in their habitats.
If you’re lucky, you might spot slender glass lizard babies. They hatch from eggs after about 53 days. The newborns are tiny, measuring only about 2.2 inches from snout to vent.
Remember, if you see one, don’t try to catch it! Their tails break easily, and it’s best to observe these fascinating creatures from a distance.
Eastern Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus ventralis)
Have you ever seen a lizard without legs? The Eastern glass lizard fits this description perfectly. Don’t be fooled – it’s not a snake!
This unique reptile can grow up to 43 inches long. It has a sleek, elongated body that shimmers in the sunlight. You’ll find it has eyelids and ear openings, unlike snakes.
The Eastern glass lizard gets its name from its ability to break off its tail when threatened. This defense mechanism helps it escape predators.
You can spot these lizards in the southeastern United States. They’re common in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. Look for them in coastal areas and grassy habitats.
Their diet consists mainly of insects and small invertebrates. They use their quick reflexes to catch prey.
When you’re out exploring, keep an eye out for these distinctive features:
- No dark stripes below the side groove
- No stripes under the tail
- Irregular white marks on the neck
- Greenish upper body with a yellow underside
Remember, if you see one, observe from a distance. These fascinating creatures play an important role in their ecosystem.
Mimic Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus mimicus)
The mimic glass lizard is a unique reptile you might spot in North Carolina. It’s the smallest glass lizard in the region, reaching 15-25.75 inches in length.
You’ll notice its long, slender body without legs. Don’t mistake it for a snake! This lizard has eyelids and ear openings, unlike its serpentine lookalikes.
The mimic glass lizard’s coloring is usually tan or brown. You may see some with pale and dark speckling. A key feature to look for is the dark brown or black stripe running down its back.
Where can you find these lizards? They live in the southeastern part of North Carolina’s coastal plain. Keep an eye out for them in Carteret County, but don’t expect to see them on barrier islands.
These lizards have a cool defense trick. If grabbed by a predator, they can shed their tail. This gives them a chance to escape while the predator is distracted.
Remember, if you’re lucky enough to spot a mimic glass lizard, observe it from a distance. These fascinating creatures play an important role in North Carolina’s ecosystem.
