Friday Herp Blogging: Green Anole, Anolis carolinensis

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These pics came from my recent trip to Florida. I believe they are green anoles. These lizards are found in the southeastern US, from eastern Texas to Virginia. I saw them getting ready for some morning sun on the wall of the outdoor shower of our cottage. Their color can range from bright green to brown or gray and their size ranges between 5 and 8 inches. Males have a flap of skin that hangs from their neck called a dewlap which is used for attracting mates and in territorial displays. The article in Animal Diversity Web, notes that "Their color varies depending on their mood, temprature, humidity, and their health. They are often referred to as the American Chameleon, although they are unrelated to chameleons."

Don't forget to check out Modulator's Friday Ark.