Okay so picture this: you’re outside, maybe chilling in your backyard or hiking with your friends, and you spot this little lizard sunbathing on a rock. It’s small, kinda fast, and has this really bright blue belly. And you’re like, “Whoa, what is that?” Then the question hits you is that thing poisonous?!
Let’s talk about it.
Table of Contents
First of All, What Even Is a Blue Belly Lizard?
The actual name is Western Fence Lizard but pretty much everyone just calls them blue belly lizards because, well, they’ve got bright blue bellies. Makes sense, right?
You’ll usually see them in places like California, Oregon, and Nevada. They’re super common if you’re anywhere out west. They love to chill on fences (duh), rocks, logs, or even your back porch if it’s sunny enough.
And the bright blue thing? That’s mostly the boys trying to impress other lizards. Kinda like their version of flexing.
So Wait… Are They Poisonous?
Short answer? Nope. Not even close.
Blue belly lizards are not poisonous, not venomous, and not dangerous in any way. You could literally hold one in your hand (if it lets you) and you’d be totally fine. Well, unless it pees on you. Which they might do if you freak them out. But that’s just rude, not toxic.
They don’t have venom. They’re not gonna bite you with some deadly toxin. They’re just super chill bug-eaters with cool bellies.
Do They Even Bite?
I mean yeah they can, but it’s like the tiniest pinch ever. You probably wouldn’t even notice unless you were messing with it a lot. If a lizard’s biting you, it’s probably because you were trying to grab it or stress it out. So maybe don’t do that?
These little guys would honestly rather just run away than fight you.
Are They Actually Good To Have Around?
Oh for sure. Blue belly lizards are kinda like nature’s pest control squad. They eat all the annoying bugs like ants, beetles, spiders, and even mosquitoes. And here’s the craziest part…
They help stop Lyme disease. No joke.
So ticks that bite blue belly lizards actually lose the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Scientists figured out that something in the lizard’s blood kills it. So if you have these lizards in your yard, that’s a good thing.
Like, they’re doing you a solid and just minding their own business.
What About Pets? Can My Cat or Dog Eat One?
Okay technically yes, your dog or cat might try to chase or eat one. That’s just what pets do. But if they do, it’s not gonna poison them or anything. Your pet might just get an upset stomach or throw up, which is gross, but not dangerous.
Still though, it’s better to stop your pet from munching on wild animals in general.
FAQs Because Everyone Always Has More Questions
Can I keep one as a pet?
You could, but they’re wild animals and not really into the whole captivity thing. Plus they’re way more fun to just watch in nature.
Do they carry any diseases?
Not really. Like all reptiles, they can carry a bit of salmonella, but unless you’re licking them or skipping hand-washing, you’re probably fine.
Are the blue ones boys?
Yes sir. The bright blue belly is mostly seen in male lizards. Females might have a little blue, but it’s usually way lighter.
What do they eat?
Bugs. All kinds. Basically anything smaller than them that moves. If it’s crawling or flying, it’s fair game.
Are they endangered or something?
Nope. They’re actually doing great in the wild. Super common in a lot of places. You’ll probably see one if you’re out in the sun long enough.
Final Thoughts
Alright, let’s wrap this up. Blue belly lizards are not poisonous. Not venomous. Not a threat. They’re just cute little dudes with flashy stomachs trying to live their best lives and eat some bugs.
