Identifying a Lizard in Southern Ontario, Canada

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying a lizard caught in Southern Ontario, Canada. Participants explore the possibility of it being a juvenile lizard, specifically considering native and non-native species in the region.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes a lizard caught by their son, noting its size, coloration, and physical characteristics, and suspects it to be a juvenile.
  • Another participant expresses surprise at the presence of a Mediterranean Gecko in Southern Ontario, questioning its occurrence in that environment.
  • Some participants identify the five-lined skink as the only native lizard to Ontario, while also mentioning the presence of salamanders as amphibians.
  • There is a suggestion that the Mediterranean Gecko may be an invasive species in Ontario, with speculation about it being introduced as a pet.
  • Additional comments reference the Mediterranean Gecko's presence in other regions, such as the east coast of the United States, and share personal experiences with the species in different locations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the five-lined skink is native to Ontario, but there is disagreement regarding the identification of the lizard in question, with some suggesting it may be an invasive Mediterranean Gecko.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference external sources for species identification, but there are limitations regarding the certainty of the lizard's identification and the implications of its presence in Ontario.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in herpetology, local wildlife identification, or the impacts of invasive species may find this discussion relevant.

DaveC426913
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My son just caught a lizard on the wall where he works. We are in Southern Ontario Canada.

It's about 2" long, translucent pink, with a brown/pink striped tail. It has pads for toes.

I strongly suspect it is a juvenile.

The only lizard I could find that's native to Ontario is the five-lined skink.

It looks a lot like the pic below (although that is a Mediterranean gecko):

I will post an actual pic as soon as my phone deigns to finish sending it.

Any takers?

(NOT ACTUAL PIC)
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Holy heck. What's a Mediterranean Gecko doing in an office building in S. Ontario?

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Ah. They are actually found along the east coast.

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They are all over my yard in Houston, and eat the 2" cockroaches that live in the flower beds so they are much welcomed
 
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They're common in coastal Alabama and the Florida panhandle. One of my cats catches them regularly. They tend to hang out on walls near a light at night and eat insects. When it gets cold, I see a few in the garage.
 
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I'm a ways from Alabama. :)
 
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