Gecko vs Garden Lizard vs Skink: Identification

Different lizards appear in and around homes. Knowing which is which is easy with a few clues.

The short answer

House geckos are pale, soft-skinned, nocturnal and sticky-footed, often on walls and ceilings. Garden lizards are larger, brownish, with rough skin and a crest, found outdoors and in gardens. Skinks have smooth, shiny scales and short legs and live on the ground. Geckos are most common inside homes.

Gecko

• Pale, soft skin.
• Sticky toe pads, climbs walls.
• Active at night.

Garden lizard

• Larger, rough skin, sometimes crest.
• Lives on plants and walls outdoors.
• Males may turn red-headed in breeding season.

Skink

• Smooth shiny scales, short legs.
• Ground-dwelling, found in gardens and leaf litter.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Which comes indoors most?

Geckos.

Are garden lizards harmful?

No.

Do skinks enter houses?

Sometimes.

Which eat the most insects?

All eat insects.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on household pest control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full household pest control guide for Bangalore.