Wildlife

Lizards

Small lizards may be seen on walls, fences or near lights; species vary, so identification and exclusion advice should suit the situation.

Sharp macro close-up of a single agama lizard resting on a plastered compound wall in bright sunlight, calm and relaxed, the scales in sharp focus, soft natural daylight, shallow depth of field

Small lizards in Ghana may include agama lizards seen by day and wall geckos seen after dark. Lizards vary in size, colour and habits, so a clear identification matters before advice is given. Some small lizards feed on insects. Around Accra homes and compounds, they may be seen on walls, fences, garden edges or near lights, where insects can gather.

Many are wary of people, and their presence outdoors can be part of ordinary wildlife around a property. Inside, concerns may include droppings, movement in kitchens or repeated sightings. A sighting alone does not establish that the building has damage or that every lizard presents the same issue. Crepps inspects the area, checks gaps and screens, and considers insect activity and lighting. We recommend exclusion and sensible cleaning, rather than spraying or poisoning lizards, then advise on prevention and check activity if needed.

Signs

Look for a lizard on a wall, fence or garden edge, or notice droppings near windows and kitchen areas. Some lizards are active by day, while geckos are often seen after dark. Note where and when sightings occur, but do not handle the animal to identify it.

Why it matters

Many small lizards are wary of people and some feed on insects, so an outdoor sighting may be part of ordinary wildlife around a compound. Indoors, droppings, repeated kitchen sightings or movement around food areas can be unwelcome. Different lizards have different habits, making identification useful.

The IPM approach

We inspect the area and identify the lizard as far as possible without handling it. We check entry gaps, screens, insects and lighting, then advise on sealing openings and reducing attractions. We focus on exclusion, safe cleaning and monitoring, never spraying or poisoning the animal.

Prevention

Seal gaps around doors, windows and service openings, and keep screens in good repair. Reduce insects around kitchens and lights, store food securely and clean droppings with ordinary hygiene precautions. Keep garden edges tidy, while avoiding direct contact with any lizard you find.

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