Green Anole Natural History
Size
The Green Anole can grow to between 13- 20cm long, and weighs between 2- 6g. These lizards’ tail accounts for half of its total length.
Habitat and Distribution
This is a diurnal and mostly arboreal lizard which inhabits forest, shrubland and wetland habitats in Central America and the southern parts of North America.
Age
The lifespan of an Green Anole is up to 8 years old.
Diet
Green Anoles are typically insectivores and will feed on moths, crickets, cockroaches, grasshoppers and small spiders.
Groups and Breeding
The Green Anoles’ breeding season is from spring to autumn and females lay a single egg every two weeks in leaf litter or loose soil. After 5- 7 weeks, the young hatch and their colour resembles that of adult Green Anoles. When they hatch, they are just under 2.5cm long and are independent.
Threats
This species is under threat from invasive species and is often hunted for the international pet trade. The IUCN Red List classes this species as Least Concern.
Interesting Facts
The Green Anole can change its colour depending on its mood and activity levels. When they are a vibrant green, the Anole is happy, active and warm; when they are brown, they are cold or sleeping. Males have a larger and more vivid pink dewlap compared to females. It is also known as the American Chameleon – but it is not a chameleon.
The Green Anoles During Your Day Out in Kent
The Green Anoles can be found free roaming in our new Reptile House so keep your eyes peeled to spot these lizards.