Lizards in Maryland: A Guide to the 7 Species Found in the State

Maryland is home to 7 different species of lizards. These cold-blooded reptiles can be found throughout the state, inhabiting forests, fields, neighborhoods, and even inside homes.

Lizards play an important role in the local ecosystem. They help control insect populations and are a food source for larger predators. For nature lovers, lizard spotting can be an enjoyable outdoor activity.

In this article, we’ll explore the 7 types of lizards found in Maryland. We’ll look at their descriptions, habitat, behavior, and tips for spotting them.

An Overview of Lizards in Maryland

All 7 lizard species found in Maryland have 4 legs. There are no legless lizard species like glass lizards or slow worms in the state.

The lizards of Maryland include:

• 4 species of skinks
• 1 whiptail species
• 1 spiny lizard species
• 1 gecko species

None of the lizards in Maryland are venomous or pose a danger to humans. However all reptiles may carry salmonella bacteria. It’s important to wash your hands after handling lizards or anything they have been in contact with.

Now let’s take a closer look at each of the 7 lizard species found in the state of Maryland.

1. Broad-Headed Skink

The broad-headed skink is the largest skink species in Maryland. Males can reach lengths of 8-10 inches.

Males have red heads and a red dewlap that expands during breeding season, Females and juveniles are brown or gray with distinct light stripes on their bodies and bright blue tails

These skinks prefer forested areas and spend a great deal of time high up in trees. They blend in well with bark and can be difficult to spot. Females often come down to the ground in spring and summer to lay eggs in rotting logs.

2. Common Five-Lined Skink

The five-lined skink is a medium-sized skink reaching lengths of 5-8 inches. It gets its name from the 5 distinctive white or yellow stripes running down the body of juveniles and females.

Males lose these stripes as they mature. Their bodies become brown or tan with orange-red heads.

Five-lined skinks inhabit forests and woodland edges. They are often seen sunning on logs or scurrying under leaf litter and debris. These lizards will bite if handled but rarely break the skin.

3. Coal Skink

The coal skink is a small, rare lizard in Maryland reaching 4-7 inches long. It gets its name from the black coloration on its body. Four broken white stripes run from its neck to tail.

Males develop red or orange color on the sides of their heads. Coal skinks live in moist wooded areas near streams and springs. They are very aquatic, diving underwater when threatened.

This endangered species should be reported to wildlife officials if seen.

4. Little Brown Skink

True to its name, the little brown skink has a brown or golden brown body reaching about 5 inches long. It has dark stripes along its sides and smooth, shiny scales.

Little brown skinks inhabit forests with lots of rotting logs and leaf litter. They prefer moist environments and are often found near streams. Fast and nervous, they quickly flee into hiding if approached.

5. Six-Lined Racerunner

The six-lined racerunner is a sleek lizard with 6 yellowish stripes running from its head to tail. They can reach lengths of 7-9 inches. These lizards live in dry, open habitats with sandy soil and scattered shrubs.

Racerunners are very speedy and will dart away rapidly if you get too close. Their long tails make up over half their total length.

6. Eastern Fence Lizard

The eastern fence lizard is Maryland’s only spiny lizard species. It gets its name from the spiny scales along its body. Adults reach lengths of 4-8 inches.

Males have bright blue patches on their sides and throats, while females have light blue lines or spots. They inhabit open woodlands and are often seen perched on fences, logs, and rocks.

7. Mediterranean House Gecko

The Mediterranean house gecko is the only gecko species found in Maryland. It gets its name from its affinity for human dwellings. These small, light brown lizards reach 3-5 inches long.

House geckos are nocturnal and emerge at night to hunt insects attracted to lights around homes. Their nearly translucent bellies help camouflage them against surface backgrounds.

When and Where to Find Lizards in Maryland

The spring and summer months are the best times to spot lizards in Maryland. This is when temperatures are warm enough for them to be active outside their burrows and hiding spots.

Some ideal places to look include:

• Forests, woodland edges, and trails
• Pine forests with lots of fallen logs
• Near streams and ponds
• Old stone fences or rock walls
• Backyards, particularly around wood or brush piles
• On the side of houses and buildings (for house geckos at night)

It takes patience and a careful eye to find lizards. Scan treetrunks, the ground, and other surfaces very slowly. Listen for rustling in the leaves that may signal a hidden lizard.

Flip over logs, branches, rocks, and debris gently to uncover hidden skinks and other species. Early morning and evenings are when many lizards emerge to bask or hunt.

Appreciating Lizards in Maryland

Maryland’s lizards are fascinating reptiles that are an important part of local habitats. They help control insect and arachnid populations while also serving as prey for larger predators. Take the time to observe and learn about these reptiles when you are outdoors in the Old Line State.

Just remember to never handle wild lizards with your bare hands. Always wash up afterwards to prevent the spread of bacteria like salmonella. Report any sightings of rare, endangered, or unusual species to your state wildlife agency.

With a little luck and patience, you may be rewarded by spotting one of these remarkable reptiles scurrying through the forests or yards of Maryland. Keep your eyes peeled!

Lizard Anatomy​