Daltonganj: Medininagar divisional forest officer Satyam Kumar has urged people to look beyond wildlife and recognise the ecological value of lizards and other small creatures that live close to human settlements.Lizards inhabit forests, grasslands, agricultural fields, gardens and homes, showing that wildlife is not limited to forests or national parks.Speaking to TOI as part of ‘Wildlife Week 2026’, Kumar said, “House lizards are often seen on walls, near air-conditioners and around washroom mirrors, yet are mostly ignored. They work as natural pest controllers by feeding on cockroaches and other insects. Every species has a role in maintaining the fabric of life.”Joking that house lizards rarely draw public concern unless they fall into midday meals at govt schools, he urged people to distinguish harmless common lizards from potentially dangerous or protected reptiles. “Awareness, scientific understanding and responsible behaviour can help communities coexist safely with wildlife, “ he added.“Changes in habitat, excessive use of pesticides, loss of vegetation, and pollution can affect reptile populations, including lizard,” he warned.
