Lizard and Snake Control: Habitat Removal, Not Repellents

No chemical repels lizards/snakes consistently. Remove what attracts them: log/rock piles, foundation gaps, tall grass, wet areas. For indoor lizards: open doors, use glue boards (release with vegetable oil). Geckos on porch? Spray insecticide to reduce their food.

Phobia vs. Reality

Most are harmless. Habitat work reassures family. Coexistence is the ultimate goal.

Q: How can I get lizards out of my house?

A: There are no repellents for lizards. They are harmless but it can be startling to see one climb up the draperies! They are likely already trying to escape – help them along by keeping doors open. If they can not find the exit, you can try to trap them. Glue boards sold for mice will catch and hold a lizard. Place them along the baseboards where you see the intruders. If you catch one, take them outside and pour vegetable oil on their feet to release the sticky glue.

Q: I must be living on top of a gecko nest...

A: I don't know of any effective repellents...you've done well by cutting down their shelter in the shrubs. Try spraying garden insecticide on the ground to kill insects they might be eating because changing their food source might help them to move on.

Frog and Toad Biology and Control