Lizards are fascinating creatures; however, when they invade our living spaces, they can become quite the nuisance. While some people are comfortable cohabitating with lizards, others prefer to keep them out of their homes. If you fall into the latter category and want to humanely get rid of lizards, here are some tips to consider.
1. Remove their food source: Lizards are attracted to insects, so keeping your home clean and free from pests will reduce their presence. Regularly clean up crumbs, make sure all food is stored properly, and fix any leaky pipes or faucets that could attract insects.
2. Seal any entry points: Lizards can find their way into your home through small cracks or gaps. Seal any gaps in windows, doors, and walls using caulk or weatherstripping. This will not only keep lizards out but will also help with energy efficiency.
3. Create barriers: Lizards are agile climbers, so using physical barriers can be effective. Place mesh screens over windows, invest in door sweeps to prevent them from entering through openings, and install mesh fences around areas you want to keep lizard-free, such as your garden or patio.
4. Use natural deterrents: There are various natural repellents that can discourage lizards from coming near your home. For instance, lizards dislike the strong odor of garlic and onion. Placing chopped garlic or onion near entry points or areas where lizards are frequently seen can help deter them. Additionally, lizards are averse to certain scents like peppermint oil, tea tree oil, and coffee grounds. Soak cotton balls in these oils or sprinkle coffee grounds around affected areas to keep lizards at bay.
5. Use sound or light devices: Lizards are sensitive to certain sounds and lights. Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are inaudible to humans but irritating to lizards. These devices can be placed near entry points. Another option is using LED lights that emit ultraviolet or blue light, as lizards are known to be less attracted to these colors.
6. Capture and release: If you spot a lizard in your home, rather than harming it, consider capturing it and releasing it back into the wild. Use a box or a container to safely trap the lizard, ensuring you do not harm or injure it in the process. Release it in a suitable outdoor location away from your home.
7. Seek professional help: If you’ve tried all the humane methods mentioned above but are still struggling with a persistent lizard problem, it may be best to seek professional help. Pest control experts can assess the situation, determine the best approach for removal, and employ methods that are both safe for you and the lizards.
Remember, it’s essential to adopt humane methods when trying to get rid of lizards. These creatures play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem, and their presence can be beneficial by keeping insect populations in check. So, if lizards aren’t causing any harm or posing a threat, consider cohabitating with them peacefully.