Wether you live in Florida or visit Florida you know you are going to be seeing the biggest range of insects and animals than many other states. Specifically, one of our most common little creatures, (what I believe to be the cutest); Lizards. Most often in the summer when its hot and balmy, you can’t miss the little guys soaking up the rays and working on their tans! Secondly, slightly more moist than the lizards, we have frogs, toads etc. While we understand some may have a fear of these creatures there is a high importance of Frogs and Lizards.
Main Importance:
Lizards and frogs play a huge role in the environment as both predator and prey. First, these little yet effective dudes keep insect (if they are big enough, rodent) populations under control. They eat things like cockroaches, mosquitos, ants spiders and crickets etc. However, they also play an important role in the food chain for larger predators such as snakes and large birds.
Secondly, we have frogs. When Frogs are tadpoles they eat the algae helping reduce the chances of algal contamination. Third, just like lizards, frogs consume many pests such a mosquitoes including their larvae. This includes the ones that spread disease such as Zika Virus, Malaria, etc. As mentioned above, frogs are important prey for many predators such as fish, birds, snakes and many more. As well, Frogs are an indicator of environmental health. Since their skin is highly permeable they can absorb toxins, chemicals and bacteria very easily.
Sometimes, they may find their way into your home hunting their prey, looking for shelter and maybe looking for water. The best thing to do for them is, gently catch and release. To chemically treat for Lizards or frogs or any amphibian or reptile, can pose dangerous threats to the food chain. Since amphibians and reptiles are both the predator and prey, if they get chemicals on them it becomes toxic for their predators. These chemicals in the prey can cause harm or kills the predators. Not only that, but they are super important for keeping insect populations under control as well. A world without reptiles and especially amphibians would have cascading and detrimental effects on the environment, humans and animals.
Natural Prevention:
There are some natural measures you can take to repel frogs and lizards from your home. Further, make sure you search you home for any entry points. These are things like broken window screens, lack of weather stripping on doors and windows, and holes or cracks. Also, they could be hanging out by your door due to a door light that is constantly on as these lights attract insects. As well, you could try natural repellents such as mixing cayenne pepper with water and spraying it where lizards and frogs like to be on your house.
Ultimately, RH Miller Pest Services has been immersed in the Central Florida area in cities like Winter Park for over a 30 years. In conclusion, our experts are committed to getting results for your lawn. As with all of our services, our process starts with a free estimate. Call our offices today @ 407-339-7119 to get the ball rolling! Between fertilizing, weed control, and fending off lawn-destroying insects, lawn care can be a full time job, our lawn professionals are standing by ready to give your yard the boost it needs!