How to Tell the Difference Between Male & Female Green Anoles

How to Tell the Difference Between Male & Female Green Anoles. The green anole is the only anole that is a native species in the U.S. and can be found in tropical forests and wooded areas. This tree-dwelling lizard lives in close to the ground in plants and trees. Male green anoles are very territorial and are known to protect multiple females at one time.

Step 1

Compare sizes. Male green anoles are larger than females in size. Males tend to be 15 percent larger than females. When measured from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail, green anoles average eight inches in length.

Step 2

Watch for use of dewlap. The dewlap, or throat fan, on a male is used to attract the attention of the females. It can also be used to ward off other suitors. Both males and females have a dewlap, but the male's is three times larger than that of the female. Female green anoles do not use their dewlaps as much as males.

Step 3

Look for dorsal crest and pores. Males have a dorsal crest that extends down their back and is raised up when the green anole feels threatened. The dorsal crest is usually extended at the same time the dewlap is extended. Males also have large pores that can be found at the base of the tale.

Step 4

Compare colors. Females, like green anole juveniles, have a white stripe down the back. Both males and females are bright green in color and can change color to a light brown. Males turn bright green when courting a female. If two males are competing, the losing one turns brown.

References

• Melissa Kaplan's Herp Care Collection: Anoles
• Savannah River Ecology Laboratory: Herps of the Southeast Virtual Walk
• Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary's Common Lizards