Question
QUESTION: I'm not sure if I have picked the correct "expert" to answer this question or not. I have small lizards that have been seen running across my deck on the back of the house, and I'm afraid that they might get inside. My wife thinks we brought them from the Caribbean several years ago in our luggage. I don't think that, but nevertheless, I would like to put some sort of barrier down to keep them of of the deck and possibly getting into the house. I don't want to kill them, if I could catch them because I heard  that they were beneficial by eating insects on the lawn or garden. Can you help?
Thanks
ANSWER: To prevent lizards from entering the home, seal all openings 1/4 inch and larger. Check areas such as corners of doors and windows, around water pipes, electrical service entrances, ventilation screens, water pipes, etc. Tight-fitting door seals, with no gaps at the edges, are important prevention measures. Unlike rats and mice, lizards cannot gnaw through wood and other common building materials. A number of materials can be used to seal access points, including insulating foam, caulking, flashing, and steel wool.

Good sanitation can be helpful in reducing the number of lizards around a home, although it alone will not eliminate their presence. Off-the-ground storage of lumber, crates, boxes, sacks, gardening equipment, and other household items will make an area less suitable for lizards by reducing their hiding spots



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QUESTION: Thanks for your reply, but I was wondering if there was something, a powder or spray that could be used. We have a small dog that goes in and out of the house through a pet opening that we have. So I can't seal that up.

Answer
There is not really a product that works all the time. There are a couple of home remedies that folks have used and say they work for a while. The problem with your case with the dog door the products will also get on the feet of the dog and may discourage it from using the door, unless you can put in away from the door maybe along the edge of the deck. In any case here are these products.

"Laxman Rekha"  is a product made in India. I guess you could try in some Indian stores in your area. Just draw with the chalk and the lizards will stay out for a while.

A solution of water, garlic essence, cayenne pepper essence, and a squirt of dish soap. Put it in a spray bottle and thoroughly sprayed around doors.  Some success with this, but not as much as would have liked.  Tobasco sauce and water is a another option.

I have not tried any of these but others say the can work for a time and may just change the habits of the lizard keeping them away.