Green Anole

(Anolis carolinensis)                                                                                

Presently found: One of the most familiar and beloved reptiles in the New Orleans area is know as the anole, the little green lizard, and, incorrectly, as chameleon.  Anoles, members of the iguana family, are found throughout the southeastern U.S., as far north as North Carolina and as far west as Texas. They are also found in warm climates throughout the Caribbean Islands and South America.

Habitat: The anole is an arboreal animal equipped for this life with color, long limbs for jumping, a great scope of vision and long claws on its toes.  Originally an animal of the forest, it is at home and welcome in urban years, patrolling fences and walls as well as trees and shrubs in search of insects.

Size:   length – 12 cm to 20 cm (5 inches to 8 inches)

Lifespan: two to three years                      

Description: The little green lizard is famous for its ability to become a little brown lizard.  Some think that this is a means of camouflage but most scientists think that the color changes are more relate to environmental conditions and the emotional state of the lizard.  Anoles are a pale green when sleeping.  A bright green is displayed when excited and this is the color in which it usually deals with other anoles (or disturbing human encounters).  Brown is associated with resting during the day. The pink dewlap extending from the throat of males, is useful in repelling invading males, and it is also used to attract females (which lack dewlaps) into the territory for mating. 

Diet: small insects and spiders

Reproduction: Anoles mate from mid-spring until late summer.  Usually a female lays one egg at a time every two weeks. 

Status: Common throughout their range

Other Fun Info:      

·        A male anole will establish a territory that he will defend from other males.  Male intruders are warned away with head-bobs, push-ups, and displays of the dewlap, a crimson fan of skin normally folded into the neck.  In the unlikely event that displays do not discourage the interloper, a chase, and even a battle may result.  The loser of such battles may lose his tail as well as his territory. 

·        Anoles are active during the day (diurnal).  They retire for the night to sleep on twigs, well hidden in the leaves.  Awaking at sunrise, they begin their day with drinks of dew and a period of basking to warm-up.  Upon reaching a comfortable temperature they begin their search for food.  Anoles hunt much like a cat.  A slow, low stalk is followed by a quiver then a quick rush with their mouths open, exposing their tiny teeth with which they grab and chew their prey.

·        The anole's tail, like the tail of other lizards is used to store fat. It is also useful in balance.  The tail easily detaches and many a predator has been left with a wiggling tail while the more vital parts of the anole scurry to safety.  A new tail may grow but it is never as "good" as the old one.