Bug Identifier
Brown Anole (Note: This is a reptile, not an insect)
Community identification

Brown Anole (Note: This is a reptile, not an insect)

Anolis sagrei

Order & Family
Order: Squamata, Family: Dactyloidae
Size
Total length of 5 to 8.5 inches (12.7 to 21.6 cm), with males being significantly larger than females.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Terrestrial and semi-arboreal. Often found in gardens, parks, and suburban areas, living on tree trunks, shrubs, and fences close to the ground.

Diet & Feeding

Mostly insectivorous, eating small arthropods like crickets, spiders, and beetles; occasionally consumes small gastropods or other small lizards.

Behavior Patterns

Diurnal and highly territorial. Males display colorful dewlaps (throat fans) and perform 'push-ups' to defend territory or attract mates. They often occupy lower levels of vegetation compared to Green Anoles.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. In many regions (like Florida), it is considered an invasive species that outcompetes native Green Anoles for resources.