Green Anole

Anolis carolinensis

The Green Anole is sometimes incorrectly called a chameleon. Like chameleons, anoles are color-change artists. Their skin color depends on body temperature, environment, and mood. When a male is approached by a rival anole, he raises a crest on his neck and turns emerald green with a black patch behind the eye. He bobs his head up and down at the intruder and extends his throat fan. Sometimes rivals chase each other high in trees. Female anoles lay one egg at a time throughout the spring and summer.

Look For : A green to brown lizard with a pink fan-shaped flap of skin on throat. Can quickly change color from green to spotted green and brown to all brown.

Length : 5-9".

Habitat : Parks, woods, old buildings, and lots, palm fronds, thickets.

Range : Southeastern U.S. from central Texas through South Carolina.