Scientific name

Anolis carolinensis

The green anole can turn brown, and the male extends a colourful dewlap. Despite its former nickname, the American chameleon, it belongs to a different group of lizards [1].

Origin

Southeastern United States [1].

  • Diurnal
  • Arboreal
  • Insectivorous

At a glance

ADULT SIZEUp to ≈ 20 cm
Up to approximately 20 cm according to Chicago Exotics; the care sheet does not specify the measurement convention [1].
LIFESPAN4 to 8 years
4–8 years given for the green anole by Tree of Life Exotics [2].
LIFESTYLEArboreal and diurnal
Diurnal and arboreal, using foliage and branches [2].

Adult size

Up to approximately 20 cm according to Chicago Exotics; the care sheet does not specify the measurement convention [1].

Lifespan

4–8 years given for the green anole by Tree of Life Exotics [2].

Lifestyle

Diurnal and arboreal, using foliage and branches [2].

Housing

ROUTES THROUGH THE FOLIAGE

≈ 46 × 46 × 61 cm — Tree of Life recommends at least approximately 46 × 46 × 61 cm for one adult anole, with more space if possible. Dense cover, several levels and secure closure make this space usable [2].

Tree of Life recommends at least approximately 46 × 46 × 61 cm for one adult anole, with more space if possible. Dense cover, several levels and secure closure make this space usable [2].

Care parameters

BASKING · DAY

≈ 31–33 °C — Approximately 31–33 °C [2] Conversion of 88–92 °F, localised at the basking site; do not heat the entire enclosure to this temperature.

COOL AREA

≈ 22–26 °C — Approximately 22–26 °C [2] The veterinary centre’s reference for its guide to green and brown anoles; check the actual gradient.

Humidity

To be documented — The profile gives no humidity value. This still needs to be documented before setting up the enclosure.

Daytime basking

Approximately 31–33 °C [2] Conversion of 88–92 °F, localised at the basking site; do not heat the entire enclosure to this temperature.

Cool area

Approximately 22–26 °C [2] The veterinary centre’s reference for its guide to green and brown anoles; check the actual gradient.

Night — the clinic’s reference

Chicago Exotics suggests approximately 21–24 °C at night (70–75 °F). [1] Scope: captivity; Anolis carolinensis; Chicago Exotics guidance. A reported limit is not a target or an established physiological threshold.

Feeding

A VARIETY OF SMALL PREY

Offer a variety of suitable small prey, properly raised and fed. Chicago Exotics emphasises preparing the insects and removing uneaten prey [1]. Organise feeding according to age and lighting equipment.

Feeding

Offer a variety of suitable small prey, properly raised and fed. Chicago Exotics emphasises preparing the insects and removing uneaten prey [1]. Organise feeding according to age and lighting equipment.

Behaviour and precautions

Colour alone cannot diagnose a problem. Prioritise observation: chasing this animal or grabbing its tail puts it at risk of injury [1] [2].

Daily monitoring

Record prey actually caught, resting places and times of emergence. Associate each measurement with its position and time; a reading taken near the lamp does not describe the lower foliage.

Checklist

  • Close gaps around cables.
  • Test the gradient on several branches.
  • Prepare leafy shelters.

Observations to record

  • Meals
  • Activity
  • Sheds
  • Temperature
  • Humidity

The app provides individual animal records. Check which features are available for your animal in the released version.

Related guides

Original guides in French

Sources

Document-based overview; not a substitute for veterinary advice.

  1. Anole Care — Erica Mede, CVT
    Source accessed
  2. Tree of Life Exotic Pet Medical Center — Green & Brown Anole Care
    Source accessed