| Information about Green Anoles |
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Basic Facts Anoles grow to an adult size of 5” - 8”. They have toe pads, which allow them to climb smooth surfaces. They like to climb and are rarely found on the ground. Anoles have the ability to change color from bright green to brown. Green is considered their active color and brown is when they are at rest. It takes about one minute for them to change. Males have two enlarged scales below the vent, and swellings, which are absent in the female. Males are territorial and should be housed alone, with females, or with another male, but only in a larger habitat. Be careful of grabbing their tails, as they will drop off. The tails will re-grow, but not as large, or in the original color. Recommended Habitat A tank size of at least ten gallons is needed. Anoles are very active and need branches and other climbing material in their home. You need a secure screen top for good ventilation and also to keep your anole from escaping. Maximum heat at one end of the aquarium should be between ninety and ninety-five degrees Fahrenheit, with the cooler end between eighty and eighty-two. Keeping a thermometer in the aquarium will ensure that the temperature remains at equilibrium. The basking area (warmer end) should be equipped with a heat lamp and hot rock or heat pad. Nighttime temperature should be seventy-two to seventy-seven degrees. Anoles need a full spectrum UV light for vitamin D3 synthesis. Calcium supplements with vitamin D3 should also be given (we recommend both of these actions be taken). The light should remain on for twelve to fourteen hours a day. Supply a shallow dish of water. Anoles like to drink droplets from the plants and sides of the aquarium, so you should use a spray bottle to spray the tank once or twice a day. Bark chips are a good substrate, and when sprayed, they will help to keep the humidity up. Over fifty percent humidity is required for you anole. Good live plants are the philodendra or English ivy. Care and Diet The aquarium should be sprayed once or twice a day. Anoles are insectivores, and therefore eat live insects. Crickets are a good choice, and should be dusted with calcium supplement containing vitamin D3 before being presented to your anole. Anoles also consume nectar in the wild and may like some fruit baby food. Special Notes Anoles shed their skin, and so the daily misting will help to ensure that this is done with ease. Remember, anoles are great climbers, and even better escape artists, so make sure that their habitat is secure, and fully sealed. Do not handle your anole frequently, as they can get easily stressed. With good care and clean surroundings, your anole can have a life span of up to six to eight years. For more information, or if you have any questions, feel free to come and visit one of our experienced retail associates, in-store. Supplies Appropriate size tank |
