Green lizard

Question
Hi Pam,
This afternoon, 9-15-06, we observed a green lizard in a tree and flowerpot near our deck. We live in south Florida. Lizard is approx. 10-12 inches overall, pointed mouth. It is able to darken its bright green color on upper back, but the top of the mouth/nose is almost black. We see a white stripe on  the upper body, on each side. From a distance of about 2 feet, I was able to see a very minute ridge (serrated), but I do not think this is an iguana. Can you help? Shall we observe, or was this possibly an escaped pet in need of rescue? It's welcome in our yard if we have food sorces it needs. Thank you. (I have a picture of it, if that would be of help, but it's rather dark.)

Answer
 South Florida is overrun with a variety of exotics these days.  It doesn't sound like a green iguana or one of the cyclura.  It could be a species of anole.  A picture could help.  If you are near Miami, or the University of Florida, or even a herpetological society, they will be happy to help you identify this little visitor.  Lizards are doing extremely well in South Florida, but unfortunately they are starting to crowd out the native species.