- Loss of body mass: The tail can make up a significant proportion of a lizard's body mass. Losing the tail can therefore reduce the lizard's ability to store energy and survive in harsh conditions.
- Reduced mobility: The tail can help lizards balance, climb, and change direction quickly. Losing the tail can therefore make it more difficult for lizards to move around and escape from predators.
- Increased risk of infection: The wound left by the dropped tail can be a source of infection. This can lead to health problems and even death.
- Reduced social status: In some lizard species, the tail is used as a display structure to attract mates and intimidate rivals. Losing the tail can therefore make it more difficult for lizards to find mates and defend their territory.