Because lizards are such small creatures, they’re often hunted by other animals for food. Hawks, snakes, and dogs are some of their common predators. Thousands of lizard species exist in various parts of the world, but they all share this trait: they sit low on the food chain.
Lizards have two ways of escaping predators–speed and camouflage. Some lizards can move so quickly, they appear to be running on water. Lizards have the ability to match their skin color to their environment, making it harder for predators to see them. Some lizards also have the unique skill of being able to shoot blood out of their eyes at predators.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the animals that commonly hunt and eat lizards.
Lizard Predators
1. Birds
Plenty of birds are known to eat lizards, including road runners, raptors, owls, hawks, and crows. Some birds will swoop down and snatch a lizard off the ground, while others will simply eat them whole. While some bird species consume lizards as a staple part of their diet, others only take advantage of the opportunity to eat them if it is given. Many predators regularly feed on small lizards, in addition to birds.
2. Snakes
The lizards are at a much higher risk because snakes can be found both on land and in trees. Additionally, snakes can ingest prey much larger than themselves by swallowing them whole, meaning they can swallow a lizard whole if they so choose. Lizards with tougher skin are typically less likely to be preyed on by snakes. For example, the Thorny Dragon lizard’s sharp scales make it a difficult meal for most snakes.
3. Dogs
Although some believe that lizards are toxic to dogs, these furry creatures still eat them by chance. All dogs have a natural prey drive that leads them to want to chase and catch small animals. However, some breeds are more predisposed to this behavior than others. If given the opportunity, any dog might try to eat a small frog or lizard. But, consuming reptiles comes with the risk of toxicity depending on the type of lizard they consume.
4. Other Lizards
In some cases, bigger lizards are also predators. Some species of lizard will hunt and eat other smaller lizards. Collared lizards and geckos are two examples of lizard species that are known to eat other smaller ones.
5. Humans
Last but not least, humans also prey on lizards. In many cultures around the world, people eat lizards as a delicacy or medicine. In some parts of Africa and Asia, lizards are commonly consumed as a source of food. Some people in these regions even believe that lizard meat has healing properties.
These are just some of the predators that lizards have to watch out for. Thanks to their speed, camouflage, and ability to shoot blood from their eyes, they’re able to escape many predator attacks. However, they’re still at the mercy of the animals higher up on the food chain.
Where Do Predators Find Lizards?
Lizards can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and grasslands. They can also be found in trees, on water, and even in your home. Predators will typically find them in the same places they would find their other prey. For example, snakes will find lizards in the same places they would look for rodents or other small animals.
Birds of prey, like hawks and owls, will look for lizards in open areas where they’re more likely to be out in the open and easier to spot. Dogs might find them during a walk in the park or even in your backyard.
Final Thoughts
Lizards have many predators, both on land and in the air. They’re at a higher risk of being eaten if they’re found in open areas or if they’re small in size. Thanks to their speed and camouflage abilities, they’re able to escape many predator attacks. We hope you found this article informative and that it helped you learn more about the animal kingdom, thanks for reading!
