Welcome to Lincoln Park Zoo’s new web app! Share your feedback
Oriente Knight Anole
Regenstein Small Mammal-Reptile House
Did You Know?
- Oriente knight anoles are named for their native range in the Oriente province of the southeastern part of Cuba.
- Males have a colorful pink or orange flap of skin under the chin called a dewlap, which they extend to scare off predators and attract mates.
- These anoles prefer to hide in dense foliage and forest canopies. They are adaptable to different environments and generally inhabit forests, mangroves, and coffee plantations.
Don’t See the Animals?
Why aren’t animals visible at all times? To promote positive animal welfare, we provide animals with choices. They can choose to spend time in areas that are out of public view.
Take an Animal Home with You
Overview
Scientific Name: Anolis smallwoodi
Class: Reptiles
Diet: Insects, grubs, and tree frogs
Range: Cuba
Endangered Status: Near Threatened
More Information
Oriente knight anoles are large lizards, measuring 8–9 inches on average. They are generally a deep green color with blue spots. They spend their time in trees hunting prey. They get water by licking it off leaves.
Oriente knight anoles are solitary, except during breeding season between March and November. Females produce just one egg at a time, but they do so every five to 25 days. Eggs remain buried in holes that she digs for up to 69 days, after which the young start to emerge.
