Anoles are small arboreal lizards that hail from the Americas and Caribbean. There are different varieties, including the only native U.S. variation: the green anole. They are increasingly popular pets because owning them offers a more interactive experience than other reptiles. They are also very distinctive with their red dorsal crests.
Many lizards or snakes are better as display pets because they don’t enjoy physical contact. Anoles are no exception. With this in mind, let’s look at everything you need to know about keeping anoles.
1. Housing a Pet Anole Is Easy
One of the benefits of owning an anole compared to a larger lizard like a bearded dragon is that they require less space. Most experts advise a 10-gallon terrarium for a single anole. You’ll need to increase the size if you have several anoles. However, never house two males together because they’re territorial. They’ll fight and may cause each other injury. It’s fine to keep two females together but not necessary. Like axolotls and chameleons, anoles are perfectly happy as solitary animals.
Owners must apply a two to three-inch substrate of coconut fiber or a similar mulch. This will also help with the humidity levels within the terrarium. These small lizards need humidity of 60 to 70% to stay healthy. You can use a hygrometer to set this accurately. Some reptile owners install misting systems in their terrariums. This is great but a cheaper way to do it is to spray mist inside.
Don’t forget to add plenty of hiding places for the anoles as well as enrichment objects. Stones, twigs, and leaves will help create a more natural environment.
2. They Require Specific Lighting
Something that many first-time lizard owners don’t expect is the initial set-up costs. After buying a basic terrarium, you’ll need to install UVF lighting. Anoles love basking during the day and need temperatures of 85 to 95 degrees
Fahrenheit. This is essential for their health so always use a thermometer to check it. Set the temperature with a thermostat. You must adjust the heat levels in the evening time to between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The basking light should remain active for 12 hours per day. Metabolic bone disease is one of the main risks to an anole’s health. Usually, it occurs because owners don’t manage the temperature correctly, so it’s important to understand their lighting and heat needs.
3. They Require Delicate Handling
Surprisingly, anoles may tolerate being handled more than other lizards. Leopard geckos are extremely popular, but they’re not always the best for human interaction. Handle anoles gently like other lizards because they have delicate bodies. Remember, you shouldn’t remove them from their terrarium for too long because of their cold-blooded circulatory systems.
Never grab anoles by the tail. Although anoles can regenerate body parts, this isn’t always a given, and the tail might not grow back. Avoid grabbing them from above too because they associate this with predators. Approach them gradually and gently. Excessive handling will stress anoles so be mindful. It’s also important to educate children properly before getting reptile pets. These creatures are amazing but they’re not like cats or dogs. They have specific needs, and we must respect them if we want to be ethical owners.
4. Anoles Only Eat Insects
Anoles differ from other lizards like crested geckos in that they only eat insects. They’re not interested in fruit or vegetables. Crickets are one of the best options. You should give them two to five per day depending on the anole’s age. Don’t forget to diversify your pet’s diet.
Mealworms and waxworms can be beneficial in different ways for your lizard friends. Anoles have poor eyesight, so it’s necessary to feed them live insects. You can do this using tweezers or creating a regular routine where the anole anticipates live insects in its enclosure.
Source your anole’s insect food from exotic pet or marine life dealerships. This reduces the risk of them contracting any health problems that affect reptiles.
5. Hygiene is a Must
Anoles are no different from other reptiles in that they can spread salmonella. This is one of the most unfortunate risks of owning a lizard, turtle, or snake. However, we can greatly mitigate this risk through proper hygiene.
First, always wash your hands properly after handling an anole. This is also important for children. Often youngsters kiss their pets or bring their hands to their mouths after touching them. This is one of the most common ways to contract salmonella from an animal. It’s contagious, too, so don’t underestimate the danger.
It’s also very important to regularly clean your lizard’s enclosure. Replace the substrate when necessary. Change their water and leftover food every day. You should keep a cleaning kit ready for your anole including another tank. If you place your anole on an external surface like a table, you should disinfect it, too. It’s better to play it safe than to take chances with your health!
6. They Live for Eight Years
Anoles are one of the shorter-lived members of the reptile kingdom. This has advantages and disadvantages. They can survive for about eight years in captivity, which can make them a good option for a child as a first pet. They’ll enjoy sharing the lizard’s entire life before leaving home as an adult. It’s not as much of a responsibility as owning a popular leopard gecko. These small reptiles may live for up to 15 years in captivity.
The downside is that most people don’t want to lose their beloved pets. If this is an issue, consider getting a tortoise because they’ll live for decades with proper care. However, remember that anoles typically only survive for four years in the wild. Owners have the privilege of sharing and improving their existence. It’s beautiful to be a part of the circle of life.
