There is one species called the Green Anole, Anolis carolinensis indigenous in North America, which is often referred to as the American Chameleon. Although anole lizards of all kinds can show color adaptations to their surroundings but the anole lizard differs from the true Chameleons in several ways, not the least of which is their very limited ability for color change. In the majority of species, the males and females differ in a way, the most commonly because the males have brightly colored dewlaps around the necks. However, females and males can also differ be different in size and even length of nose. Another species is one called the Brown Anole (A. sagrei) is found in parts within the United States, but is considered to be an invasive species and has negative effects on local ecosystems. A number of other species such as those of the Knight Anole (A. equestris) are also found in Florida however they are introduced species that are not native to the area.
Anole Lizards facts
The majority of species of anoles can alter hue to a certain extent.
The majority of males with anoles have a brightly colored dewlap, which is used for mating and marking the territory of.
There are around 400 anoles species and around 150 are that are found on islands in the Caribbean.
Some anole lizard species can grow as long as 20 inches.
Males and females of the species called anoles are almost always different in some manner, not only but not only the existence of the male’s dewlap.
Anole Lizards Scientific name
Anoles belong to the Family Dactyloidae and are part of the Class Reptilia. As there are more than 400 species, it is impossible to give all their scientific names in this article. Collectively, they are known as Anolis. Some of the subspecies are Anolis caliensis (Green Anole), Anolis sagrei (Brown Anole), Anolis equestris (Knight Anole), Anolis allisoni (Cuban Blue Anole, one of the more brightly colored species of anoles) as well as Anolis allisoni (Horned Anole).
Anole Lizards Appearance
The dimensions and colors of every anole species of lizard can vary according to the climate, habitat and the diet. Depending on where they live and how they hunt, they may be able to adapt their physical features like hind legs that are large that allow them to leap large distances to catch prey, or short slim legs when they live in higher trees , and then slowly creep up on prey , avoiding being noticed by predators during hunts. They come in many colors, though the most commonly used colors are the greens and browns, with blue and sometimes yellow variations. Male anole lizards are the most common species to have dewlaps. They are an erectile organ in the neck. It can be collapsed and extended into a semi-oval-shaped shape. The dewlaps of males are able to be of any color and the hue is distinct from the body of the lizard.
Male brown Anole lizard with throat fan expanded.
Steve Bower/Shutterstock.com
Anole Lizards Behavior
Anoles are mostly solitary animals. They might live close to one however they are rarely located in groups. Males aggressively defend their territories during sexual maturation, but they’re typically gentle and accept humans to various degrees. There are a variety of behavioral modifications that occur depending on the conditions within which they live.
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Anole Lizards Habitat
Most anole lizard species live within or near trees, though some live close to the base, while others prefer the smaller branches close to the top. Their hunting techniques will differ with respect to where they live. They can be found in reeds, bushes low limbs, tree trunks, and forest canopies. They can be found in a variety of ecosystems, which includes on farms, in backyards of residential properties, in rainforests, dry forests, desert grasslands, scrub, and in the riverside vegetation.
Anole Lizards Diet
Most anoles are insectivores, though some will also consume nectar and plants. Anoles are hunters who feed primarily on insects, spiders and other invertebrates but also eat nectar, sap from trees, and occasionally rotted fruit. Larger species may consume smaller or smaller lizards as well as snakes, and eggs.
Anole Lizards Predators and threats
Anoles are at risk due to other anoles. For instance, if they share a habitat Brown Anoles eat green anoles and their eggs. They also are prey to large snakes and reptiles along with predatory birds , as well as a few tiny mammals. Their ability to change colors gives them some security from predators but they are vulnerable in mating times when they boost their movements and show off brighter colors.
Anole Lizards Reproduction and Life Cycle
Typically, when males reach the age of sexual maturation, they will look for a mate by flexing their dewlap and occasionally doing what appears like push-ups. Push-ups can also be used as a show of the strength of a male to deter males from entering mating area. Females and males are polyamorous and can be found mating with many partners throughout their lifetime. Male anoles guard a specific territory to enjoy exclusive access to females who reside or enter within the area.
However, the females wander off from their territories and may mate with males as well. If a mate has been found the female will lay one or two eggs following copulation. This happens often every day through the mating season. A baby will hatch at about 0.75 inches in height. A baby’s anole can become sexually mature around 18 months. They will also are able to live from two (wild) and up to seven (captive).
Anole Lizards Population
The numbers vary greatly between species With Green Anoles estimated at 100,000 specimens or greater and the Blue Anole so rare that it is likely to be headed towards extinct.
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