Green Anole 40D0026527

Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)

The Carolina anole (Anolis carolinensis), also known as the green anole, is an arboreal lizard found primarily in the southeastern parts of the United States and some Caribbean islands. Common synonyms include the American anole and red-throated anole. It is sometimes referred to as the American chameleon due to its color-changing abilities; however, it is not a true chameleon.

The Carolina anole can reach a total length of about 22-24 cm (8.5-9 in). Females are slightly smaller, about 16 cm (6 in). The male has a dewlap-pink or light red in color-that can be extended from the chin as a courtship or territorial display. This dewlap display is often accompanied by head bobbing and "pushups." Green Anoles can have a green or a brown body color, depending on mood, time of day, surroundings, and temperature, with a white underbelly. Most females also exhibit a dewlap, yet are often not as large or colorful as the full-fledged adult male anoles.

As a defense mechanism, their tails detach with mild force. The lost tail piece is left twitching as a distraction so the lizard may escape safely. Missing tails will regenerate, but the new tail is usually not as functional, and a lizard with a regenerated tail is usually distinguishable from a lizard with its original tail. Their eyes move independently of one another, as do those of chameleons.

More info: [link]

I give #DeviantHerps permission to display this deviation in their club gallery.

Featured by the talented *violent-obsession in her journal "Remembering Christmas 2009": [link] .