Bryan McAllister’s personal reference notebook
July 30, 2026Short & citedBlog
Civic Viewpoint.
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Field Notes • Reptiles

Lizard

Lizards are a widespread group of reptiles in the order Squamata, distinguished from snakes by having four limbs in most species, movable eyelids, and external ear openings in many species.

Updated July 30, 20261 min readCited sources

Lizards are reptiles in the order Squamata, found on every continent except Antarctica. In Canada, they are not native but are encountered as pets and in zoos.

What lizards are

Lizards are a broad and diverse group of squamate reptiles. They include thousands of species with different body forms, habitats, and life histories. Most have four limbs, movable eyelids, and external ear openings, distinguishing them from snakes.

What they eat

Lizard diets depend on the species and environment. Many eat insects and other invertebrates, while others are omnivores or herbivores, consuming fruit, leaves, eggs, or small vertebrates.

How they reproduce

Most lizards reproduce through internal fertilization. Many species lay eggs, but some retain the eggs inside the body and give birth to live young. Lifespan varies from a few years to decades.

In short

  • Lizards are reptiles in the order Squamata.
  • Their diets vary widely by species.
  • Most lay eggs; some give live birth.
  • The largest living lizard is the Komodo dragon.
Canadian angle

Lizards are not native to most of Canada because the climate is generally too cold for most species, but Canadians encounter them as pets, in zoos, and in scientific or educational settings.

Quick questions

What do lizards eat?
It depends on the species. Many eat insects, while others also eat fruit, leaves, eggs, or small animals.
How long do lizards live?
Lifespan varies widely. Small lizards may live a few years, while larger species can live for decades.
What is the difference between lizards and snakes?
Lizards usually have four limbs, movable eyelids, and external ear openings, while snakes lack limbs and have no movable eyelids or visible ear openings.

Sources

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/animal/lizard
    Supports: General definition, diversity, and distinguishing features of lizards and snakes
  2. National Geographichttps://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/reptiles/facts/lizards
    Supports: Overview of lizard biology, habitat, diet, and reproduction
  3. IUCN Red Listhttps://www.iucnredlist.org/species/48358031/101602290
    Supports: Komodo dragon status and species information
  4. Animal Diversity Webhttps://www.adw.cam.ac.uk/
    Supports: General reptile and lizard natural history, including reproduction and diet
  5. PetMDhttps://www.petmd.com/reptile/what-do-lizards-eat
    Supports: Examples of lizard diets, including insects, fruit, and vegetation
  6. PetMDhttps://www.petmd.com/reptile/care/evr_rp_what-do-lizards-eat
    Supports: Species variation in diet and feeding patterns for lizards