The Gecko is very small compared to the Gila Monster, but neither lack in agility and swiftness, a trait shared by most lizards. Lizards abound in ancient cultures and history. Some cultures feared lizards and created superstitions such as if a lizard bit the shadow of an unsuspecting person, they were then doomed to die. Other cultures revere the lizard and have positive beliefs. Asian cultures believe that if a Gecko calls from the bedroom of newlyweds, they shall lead a long and prosperous life together.
Many countries utilize the lizard in ceremonies, still practiced today.
Some Indian tribes of North America used lizard tails in a recipe for love potions. In India, live Monitor Lizards are used in fertility rites and serpent festivals, often bringing harm to the lizard. They are also eaten and their skin used for leather. In the tropics, the Green Iguana is killed for its flesh and eggs. Today, the Gila Monster and Bearded Lizard face depletion, mainly due to being killed off as deadly, venomous lizards.