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green anole

lizard
Also known as: Anolis carolinensis

Quick Summary

The green anole (Anolis carolinensis) is a small, tree-dwelling lizard native to the southeastern United States. Related to iguanas, it is often mistakenly called the American chameleon. Green anoles can change their skin color from green to brown, though this ability is less pronounced than in true chameleons. They possess specialized finger and toe pads that allow them to climb quickly and agilely, even on smooth surfaces. Males have a brightly colored throat fan, or dewlap, used for territorial signaling and attracting mates. Green anoles primarily feed on insects and are often kept as pets.123

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