Things You'll Need
Duct tape
Scrap wood
Nails
Hammer
Caulk sealant
Caulking gun
Bug repellent
Moth balls
Geckos and anoles, more commonly referred to as chameleons, can be fun to look at in the wild or keep as pets, but they aren't always welcome house guests. While geckos only reach a maximum size of about 8 inches, several chameleon species can grow over a foot long. Both are classified as small lizards, meaning that they feed primarily on pests like cockroaches, mosquitoes, small rats and centipedes. Though these reptiles are generally harmless, you can avoid the mess they leave behind by repelling them using safe, friendly methods.
Step 1
Check outside your home and ensure the window screens are securely fastened and free of holes. If you find holes that may be an entry point for the reptiles, use duct tape as a temporary patch until you can replace the screen.
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Step 2
Look for any cracks, seams or crevices around your home's exterior. Patch large holes with appropriately sized pieces of scrap wood. For smaller openings, fill them with a thick bead of caulk sealant.
Step 3
Eliminate potential food sources for the lizards. Keep your home free of cockroaches, mosquitoes and other pests by spraying bug repellent outside of your home regularly. For indoor use select a commercially available product which is free of harmful fumes or chemicals.
Step 4
Place mothballs near potential entryways or areas where you normally find the geckos or chameleons. The pungent scent of mothballs is usually enough to repel these creatures.
Step 5
Keep your home at a cool temperature using air conditioning and standing fans. As both reptiles prefer warm, humid environments, the drop in temperature will send them in search of moist heat.
Tip
Geckos serve as a great pest repellent. If you can learn to be comfortable with several geckos sticking to your walls, you'll save money on bug spray. If you are facing an infestation of reptiles, contact your local animal control company immediately.
Warning
Keep mothballs and bug repellent away from young children and pets.
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