HOLY ANOLI!

While visiting Florida, have you encountered small brown lizards darting across your path, slipping into your motel room, and staring back at you menacingly with beady little eyes? Then you have met the invasive Brown Anole- also known as the Bahamian Anole or the Cuban Anole. You can recognize them by their brown coloring with various patterns on their back; such as darker patches and white speckles. The males have a bright red flap connected to their neck called a dewlap- which is usually displayed when threatened, or to attract a female during mating season.

They are native to Cuba and the Bahamas and can reach anywhere from 3 to 8 inches in length. This species was first spotted in the Florida Keys in 1887. Scientists believe they were introduced to Florida through the sea ports as well as the exotic pet trade. Brown Anoles thrive in warm, vegetated environments with lots of insects- which is why they are succeeding so well. However, this is bad news for our native Floridian friend, the Green Anole. Brown Anoles will consume Green Anole eggs, as well as juvenile Green Anoles.

Since the introduction of the Brown Anole, scientists have discovered that the Green Anole is going through both behavioral and physical changes. They are developing larger toe pads and living higher up off the ground. This change is happening because Green Anoles and Brown Anoles have the same niche, or role, in the ecosystem and therefore compete for the same resources. Brown Anoles are more aggressive and out-compete the Green Anole, which forces the Green Anoles to adapt and change. Unfortunately, the Brown Anole's range is growing. It is now found in Georgia, Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

How can you help?

1. Be a responsible pet owner. Instead of releasing pet Anoles into the wild when you can no longer care for them, try to find them a new home. There are many reptile rescues, wildlife rehabilitators, rescue groups, pet shops, and nature centers that would willingly take your pet that you can no longer care for.

2.  You can make sure your garden provides proper Green Anole habitat. Plant taller plants and provide hanging pots since they are now living higher off the ground.

3. Lastly, Brown Anoles are edible! Help cut down their population while having a tasty treat! Bake them, saute them, or fry them- your choice!

 http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/reptiles/brown-anole/

http://www.eattheweeds.com/brown-anole-lunch-2/