*From lizards and snakes to frogs and turtles, the Reptile & Amphibian Education Hub is your gateway to responsible herpetology care. Learn how to set up enclosures, manage temperature and humidity, and provide the right diet for your cold blooded companions.
With over 7,000 species found across nearly every temperate region of the world, lizards are among the most diverse and captivating reptiles on the planet. Their ability to adapt to different environments, along with their unique personalities and engaging behaviors, makes them not only fascinating to observe in the wild but also beloved pets in many households. One of the most intriguing and entertaining behaviors some lizards exhibit is something that looks surprisingly like a human exercise routine: the push up.
This quirky action, often accompanied by head bobbing or throat displays, is much more than a stretch – it is a complex form of communication.
While not all lizards display this behavior, it is particularly common among territorial species that use body language to express dominance, establish boundaries, or even say hello. A series of quick, assertive push ups may serve as a warning to potential rivals, signaling that the area is claimed and challengers are unwelcome.
In contrast, slower and more measured movements might be used to signal curiosity or a peaceful acknowledgment of another lizard’s presence. Pet species like green iguanas and anoles are especially known for this behavior. Anoles, in particular, add another layer to their communication by extending a vibrant throat pouch called a dewlap, making their message even more visually striking.
Understanding these small gestures can deepen the bond between you and your pet lizard, helping you better interpret their moods and behaviors. It is moments like these - those little push ups, the tilt of a head, or the flash of a dewlap - that remind us how alive and expressive these reptiles truly are.
Chewy editorial team takes a closer look at this fascinating behavior, offering insights to help you better connect with your lizard and appreciate the incredible ways they communicate. Because the more we understand their world, the more we can give them a life that feels safe, enriched, and full of care.
