Carolina Anoles

Do you have childhood memories of catching lizards in the backyard? Maybe you or your kids kept a few as temporary pets.

Carolina anoles, also known as green anoles, are a common sight in a garden or yard, and for me, they are a welcomed addition!

Some even refer to Carolina anoles as “chameleons” due to their ability to change from green to brown based on their surroundings. However, they are not true chameleons. Regardless, their ability to match their surroundings is still impressive. It is so remarkable that I have to check my wreaths on the front door of my house from time to time coming in and out of the house due to a few resident anoles taking a liking to it (I guess my wreath makes an excellent habitat)!

Anoles change colors for various reasons, typically due to their external environment. Temperature, competition, excitement, or even increased activity can cause them to change their body color. You may have noticed anoles in the wintertime that are brown or almost black due to cold temperatures and other stresses.

Another characteristic of these diurnal lizards is their pink dewlap and head bobbing, both territorial displays and communication mechanisms. Males often display their dewlaps during the breeding season to signal to females and to settle territory disputes between other males! Both males and females perform head bobbing as another method of communication.

Green anoles are considered insectivores and eat mainly insects. They do an excellent job keeping insect populations in check, especially around your homes. Although not great for the anoles, they also play a critical role in the food chain. Many wildlife species, like birds and even snakes, will eat them!