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Lizards: Unsung Heroes of Pest Control Revealed
4 Oct
Summary
- Lizards act as natural pest controllers, eating cockroaches and insects.
- Small creatures like lizards inhabit diverse environments, not just forests.
- Habitat changes, pesticides, and pollution threaten reptile populations.
Medininagar Divisional Forest Officer Satyam Kumar is advocating for a broader understanding of wildlife, urging the public to recognize the ecological contributions of lizards and other small creatures. He points out that these animals, commonly found in homes, gardens, and agricultural fields, are often overlooked despite their significant roles.
Kumar highlighted that house lizards, for instance, act as natural pest controllers by feeding on insects like cockroaches. He stressed that every species plays a vital part in maintaining ecological balance. This observation comes as part of 'Wildlife Week 2026', a period dedicated to raising awareness about biodiversity.
The forest officer also cautioned that changes in habitat, extensive pesticide use, loss of vegetation, and pollution pose threats to reptile populations, including lizards. He encouraged distinguishing between harmless common lizards and potentially dangerous or protected species, promoting coexistence through awareness and scientific understanding.
