Anoles are small reptiles, related to the iguana, but with a more compact look. Different kinds of anoles can be found in southern states of the U.S., Cuba, Jamaica and the Caribbean Islands. They love warm, humid climates.

These little climbers love to spend their time crawling around on branches, walls, and other vertical planes.

Green anoles don't really like to be held very much. So, it's best to handle them minimally to avoid too much stress. If an anole is stressed out, they can drop their tail as a defense mechanism.

Green anoles love a nice, toasty environment with plenty of moisture and ventilation. Their habitat should be warmer at the top and cooler towards the floor, so your anole can bask in the light or cool down as needed.

Here are a few interesting facts about Anoles.

• Male anoles are strongly territorial creatures. Some have even been witnessed fighting their own reflections in mirrors.

• An anole's diet consists primarily of small insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, flies, butterflies, moths, cockroaches, small beetles, and other arthropods, including spiders, as well as occasionally feeding on various grains and seeds.

• The Carolina anole is diurnal (which means they are active during the day, much like we are) and active throughout the year, peaking in spring and fall. Winter activity is dependent on sun and temperature.

• The anole changes its color depending on mood, level of stress, activity level and as a social signal. Although often claimed, evidence does not support that they do it in response to the color of the background.

For more information about this and other animals, click on this student safe resource.

These cute critters are available to check out for a 2-week period to help enhance teaching activities through the Living Science Material Center CO-OP page.