World Lizard Day

World Lizard Day History

World Lizard Day is dedicated to recognizing the diversity and ecological importance of lizards. These reptiles play a vital role in ecosystems around the globe, including pest control and serving as a food source for various predators. This observance aims to raise awareness about the need to protect and conserve lizard species as more and more face the threats of habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.

Lizards hold a unique place in American wildlife, with around 150 species native to the United States. The country is home to a variety of lizard types, ranging from geckos, anoles, and chameleons to the iconic Gila monster – one of the only venomous lizards in the world. Several lizard species are endemic to the U.S., and many are currently struggling in the face of habitat degradation and invasive species. World Lizard Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting these extraordinary animals and preserving the environments they inhabit.

In America, World Lizard Day is observed through various individual initiatives and organized events that aim to raise awareness about lizards and their importance in maintaining balanced ecosystems. These celebratory events may include educational activities, reptile shows, and opportunities to learn about ongoing conservation efforts, such as habitat restoration or invasive species control. World Lizard Day is observed annually on August 14th.

World Lizard Day facts

• Lizards have a long history on earth - the earliest known fossil records date back over 200 million years, meaning they survived the mass extinction that wiped out the dinosaurs.
• Lizards are capable of communicating through body language, bright colours, pheromones, and even doing push-ups to assert dominance.
• Many lizards can disconnect their tails when pursued by a predator. This process is called 'autotomy'. They can then regenerate a new tail.
• According to reptile-database.org, in 2020 there were about 6,900 different lizard species in the world. Lizards can be found on every continent except Antarctica.
• The largest lizard in the world is the Komodo dragon. It can grow up to 10 ft long and weigh close to 150 pounds. The smallest lizard in the world is the tiny gecko. It grows between 0.55-0.71 inches and weighs .13 grams.
• The Gila Monster is one of the only lizard species in the world with a venom that is toxic to humans. They are native to Utah, Nevada and parts of Mexico.

In the News and Trending in the US for World Lizard Day

Top things to do in the US for World Lizard Day

• Visit your local zoo. See animals from different regions and be sure to catch the reptiles and lizards.
• Visit a reptile shop and find a scaly friend to take home. Reptile shops are similar to pet shops but they cater specifically to reptiles and lizards. Find a species that interests you and ask how to properly care for it.
• Watch a documentary about lizards. Here are our suggestions:
  The Strange World of Lizards
  PBS Nova Lizard Kings
  Into the Forest: Reptiles & Amphibians
• Volunteer at reptile rescue centers or rehabilitation facilities. You can learn about different species of lizards, understand their specific needs, and contribute to their wellbeing.