Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis) Care Guide

Overview

The Green Anole is a small, active lizard native to the southeastern United States. Known for its ability to change from bright green to brown, this species is sometimes called the “American Chameleon” (though it is not a true chameleon). Green Anoles are fascinating, hardy reptiles that do well in captivity with proper care.

• Scientific Name: Anolis carolinensis

• Common Name: Green Anole, American Chameleon

• Origin: Southeastern United States (Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, etc.)

• Adult Size: 5–8 inches (13–20 cm) including tail

• Lifespan: 4–6 years in captivity with good care

• Temperament: Active, curious, can be skittish

Enclosure Requirements

• Tank Size: A vertical enclosure is best since they are arboreal. A 10-gallon tank can house a single anole, but a 20-gallon tall terrarium is recommended for 2–3.

• Substrate: Coconut fiber, organic soil, or reptile-safe moss with leaf litter. Paper towels can also be used for simple setups.

• Decor: Provide branches, vines, and live or artificial plants for climbing and hiding. They thrive in heavily planted enclosures.

• Temperature:

  • Basking spot: 85–90°F (29–32°C)

  • Ambient: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

  • Night: No lower than 65°F (18°C)

• Lighting: UVB lighting (5.0 UVB) is essential for calcium absorption and overall health. Provide a 10–12 hour light cycle.

• Humidity: 60–70%. Mist the enclosure 1–2 times daily. A drip system or misting system helps maintain hydration.

Diet

Green Anoles are insectivores and require a varied diet of live prey.

• Staple Foods: Crickets, small roaches, mealworms, waxworms, black soldier fly larvae.

• Feeding Frequency:

  • Juveniles: Daily

  • Adults: Every other day

• Supplements: Dust insects with calcium powder 3–4 times per week and a reptile multivitamin once a week.

• Water: They typically drink droplets from leaves and enclosure walls, so misting is essential. A small shallow dish can be offered, but many will ignore it.

Behavior & Temperament

• Color Change: Can shift from bright green to brown depending on temperature, stress, and mood.

• Activity: Arboreal and diurnal (active during the day).

• Handling: Green Anoles are delicate and stress easily. Limit handling; enjoy them as an active display species.

Special Notes

• Best kept in small groups (1 male with multiple females) – males are territorial and should not be housed together.

• Stress is common if the enclosure is too small, bare, or lacks proper temperature and humidity.

• Provide plenty of climbing surfaces and cover to help them feel secure.

✅ Summary:
The Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis) is an energetic, arboreal lizard perfect for a planted terrarium setup. With proper heating, UVB lighting, humidity, and a varied insect diet, these hardy reptiles can thrive for years as active display pets.