Description:
Scientific name: Anolis sagrei
Life span: 5-8 years
The backgrounds of Anolis sagrei commonly range from light gray to brown or even black. They frequently have irregular dots, chevrons, patches, and lines of light hue. They have a large dewlap, often known as a neck fan, that can range in hue from yellow to red. In territorial and mating displays, this is used.
Native Region/Habitat
The Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Cuba, and other nations are all included in this anole’s native range, which covers a large portion of the Caribbean. In some areas of Florida, in the United States, they are currently regarded as an invasive species.
Behavior:
This anole’s coloring makes it simple for it to blend in with its environment, making it challenging for predators to identify. The anole’s tail is detachable and can be used as a weapon against predators or as a distraction since it twitches when it separates. After that, the tail returns, but smaller and with a duller hue. Despite having a long list of predators, the lizard is extremely difficult for predators to track and trap due to its awareness and sprint speed.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
Housing:
In a 12x12x18 space, one adult animal can be kept. For pairs or trios, 18x18x24 is the ideal size. For this species, a bioactive setup with live plants is highly advised; Bio Bedding is suggested to sustain live plants, springtails, and isopods. For this arboreal species, provide a lot of climbing resources, such as cork bark, branches, or bamboo.
Temperature:
Keep brown anoles between mid-seventies to mid-eighties. A basking spot of around 90-95 F is also recommended. Some may bask at higher temperatures, especially the females during breeding season. Temperature should be monitored with a digital thermometer. Night temperatures should not fall below 65 F. Anoles should also be provided with a 5.0 or similar strength UVB light.
Diet:
In the wild, these anoles are insectivores. Hatchlings and young animals kept in captivity should be fed 18-inch crickets or fruit flies until they are big enough to consume 14-inch crickets. Provide 14″ or 12″ crickets to grownups. Excellent snacks include waxworms, butterworms, tiny hornworms, and black fly larvae, although they should only be given on rare occasions. Feeder insects need to be treated with a multivitamin and calcium supplement.
Table
