Lizards can occasionally burrow under pavers, but their impact varies significantly depending on species, soil conditions, and paver installation. While some lizards like skinks and desert spiny lizards might create shallow burrows, they rarely cause substantial structural damage to paver installations. Understanding their behaviors, habitat preferences, and prevention strategies is crucial for homeowners concerned about potential underground activities.
What Species of Lizards Burrow Under Pavers?
Lizard Species and Their Burrowing Characteristics
| Lizard Species | Burrowing Depth | Likelihood of Paver Disruption |
|---|---|---|
| Southeastern Five-Lined Skink | Shallow | Low |
| Desert Spiny Lizard | Minimal | Very Low |
| Collared Lizard | Minimal | Very Low |
Lizards have diverse burrowing behaviors that depend on multiple environmental factors:
Key Burrowing Characteristics
- Most lizards create shallow, temporary burrows
- Burrowing depth rarely exceeds a few inches
- Sandy soils facilitate easier underground movement
How Do Soil and Paver Types Influence Lizard Burrowing?
Factors Affecting Lizard Underground Activities
- Soil Composition
- Sandy soils: More conducive to lizard burrowing
-
Clay or compacted soils: Significantly restrict underground movement
-
Paver Installation Techniques
- Tight joint installations: Minimize lizard access
- Loose or poorly compacted bases: Increase burrowing potential
What Prevents Lizards from Digging Under Pavers?
Effective Prevention Strategies
Homeowners can implement several techniques to discourage lizard burrowing:
- Install geotextile fabric underneath pavers
- Use compacted gravel base materials
- Ensure tight joint installations
- Create exclusion barriers around paver perimeters
What Are the Ecological Implications of Lizards Under Pavers?
Potential Benefits and Considerations
While lizards might seem like a nuisance, they offer ecological advantages:
- Natural pest control
- Soil aeration
- Indicator of healthy ecosystem
Cost-Effective Prevention Methods
Estimated Intervention Expenses
| Prevention Method | Cost Range per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Geotextile Fabric | $1 – $3 |
| Compacted Gravel Base | $2 – $5 |
| Trench Screening | $3 – $6 per linear foot |
Conclusion: Understanding Lizard Behavior
Lizards rarely pose significant threats to paver installations. By understanding their behaviors and implementing strategic prevention techniques, homeowners can coexist harmoniously with these small reptilian neighbors.
Practical Recommendations
- Monitor paver areas periodically
- Maintain well-compacted bases
- Use natural deterrent techniques
- Appreciate lizards’ ecological role
Reference:
– Ask Extension – Lizard Control
– Critter Evictors – Burrowing Issues
– Boyce Thompson Arboretum – Desert Wildlife