SREL Reprint #2344

Winter mortality in the green anole, Anolis carolinensis (Lacertilia: Polychridae)

Jane K. Distler1, Michael E. Dorcas1, J. Whitfield Gibbons1, Karen L. Kandl1, and Kevin R. Russell2

1Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, South Carolina 29802
2Department of Forest Resources, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634-1003

Abstract: Winter behaviors of lizards are poorly documented. Most available information pertains to the formation of aggregations to escape freezing temperatures. During cold weather, lizards may seek shelter under bark, felled trees, or rotting stumps. However, such refugia may not provide adequate protection during abnormally cold conditions. We discovered the remains of 12 adult green anoles (Anolis carolinensis) within a Carolina bay located on International Paper Timber Company land in Marion County, South Carolina. The anoles presumably were killed by severe winter temperatures during the winter of 1996.

SREL Reprint #2344

Distler, J.K., M.E. Dorcas, J.W. Gibbons, and K.L. Kandal. 1999. Winter mortality in the Green Anole, Anolis carolinensis (Lacertilia: Polychridae). Brimleyana 25:140-143.

This information was provided by the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (srel.uga.edu).