Bahamian Brown Anole

Scientific Name: Anolis sagrei
Common Name: Bahamian Brown Anole

Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 5 to 8 inches (13 to 20 cm) in total length, with males being larger, bulkier, and longer-tailed than females.

Appearance: The Bahamian Brown Anole is a small, adaptable lizard distinguished by its earthy brown, tan, or grey base colour and variable patterning. Many individuals feature dorsal striping, diamond-shaped blotches, or scattered speckling. Males possess a vibrant red to orange dewlap often edged with yellow or white, used for displays and communication. Their long limbs, angular head shape, and lengthy tail give them an agile, athletic profile. Body tones shift with temperature, mood, and lighting, allowing them to blend effectively into natural surroundings.

Distribution: Native to the Bahamas, Cuba, and surrounding Caribbean islands. It has also established introduced populations in North America and several tropical regions worldwide.

Habitat: This species favours sunny, open habitats such as scrublands, gardens, forest edges, rocky areas, and human-modified landscapes. In captivity, it thrives in tall, well-ventilated enclosures with abundant climbing structure and foliage.

Behaviour: Bahamian Brown Anoles are diurnal, active, and territorial. Males engage in head-bobbing, dewlap displays, and tail-raising to defend territory. They are alert and quick-moving, best kept as display animals. Handling is generally not recommended due to their small size and speed.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A vertically oriented enclosure measuring 24 inches × 18 inches × 24 inches (60 × 45 × 60 cm) is suitable for a small group or pair. Provide branches, vines, cork bark, live or artificial plants, and elevated basking perches.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a basking area of 90 to 95°F (32 to 35°C) with daytime ambient temperatures of 78 to 85°F (25 to 29°C). Night temperatures can drop to 70 to 75°F (21 to 24°C). Humidity should remain between 60 and 75%, supported by daily light misting.

Lighting: Provide full-spectrum lighting with moderate UVB (5%) for 12 hours daily. UV exposure is essential for proper calcium metabolism and overall health.

Diet: Offer small insects such as crickets, fruit flies, bean beetles, mini roaches, isopods, silkworms, and black soldier fly larvae. Juveniles require daily feeding; adults can be fed every 1–2 days. All insects should be gut-loaded and dusted with calcium and multivitamins. Anoles hydrate primarily from droplets on leaves, so regular misting is important.

Behaviour in Captivity: Brown Anoles are energetic climbers and active hunters. When provided with dense foliage and structure, they display a full range of natural behaviours, including basking, displaying, and rapid pursuit of prey.

Special Considerations: These lizards are escape-prone and sensitive to dehydration. Enclosures must have secure mesh, proper ventilation, and consistent humidity. They should not be handled frequently due to fragility.

Taxonomy Note

The Bahamian Brown Anole belongs to the genus Anolis, one of the most diverse reptile genera in the world. Anolis sagrei is considered a trunk–ground anole, adapted for quick movement along low vegetation and open spaces.

Genetics Note

There are no recognised morphs for the Bahamian Brown Anole in captivity. Natural variation occurs in dewlap colour intensity, dorsal patterning, and overall shade, but these differences reflect locality-based diversity rather than genetically established morphs.