Short Wave What drives animals to your yard? It's complicated
22 snips
Jan 27, 2026 
Daniel Sollenberger, a herpetologist and senior wildlife biologist in Georgia who identifies local reptiles and amphibians, explains who is showing up in suburban yards. He names common species like anoles, skinks and tree frogs. He talks about how yard plants, water features and urban development change where these animals live. He also covers making yards less or more welcoming and community monitoring opportunities.
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Home Garden Overrun In Atlanta Suburb
- Shabnam in Lawrenceville, GA stopped enjoying her garden after years of sudden lizard and frog visits.
- She reports croaking nights and many sunning lizards that seemed to explode in the past few years.
Suburban Species Are Highly Adaptable
- Common adaptable species like green anoles and five-line skinks thrive in suburban yards and tolerate varied conditions.
- Daniel Sollenberger says these species easily live under decks, in ornamental plants, and near retention ponds.
Make Your Yard Unfriendly To Wildlife
- Make a yard inhospitable by mowing frequently, trimming shrubs to the ground, and removing rock or leaf piles to reduce hiding spots.
- Daniel warns this eradication approach reduces wildlife but also lowers benefits like pest control.