Nature Field Guide
Tiny Anole
- Spanish name
- Anolis microtus
- Scientific name
- Anolis microtus
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “What helps this reptile fit into its habitat?”
Tati: “Let’s look at its shape, colors and surroundings while giving it plenty of space.”
Species overview
About the Tiny Anole
Names can be surprising: the tiny anole is a large anole. It has a broad head, relatively short legs and a long tail. Green, brown and pale markings can break up its outline against a leafy branch.
This species belongs to a group of similar large anoles. A name based on size alone can be misleading, and a green lizard should not automatically be called an iguana. Compare the whole animal, its locality and a reliable identification reference. Keep your observation brief and leave its perch undisturbed.
Identification
Key Features of the Tiny Anole
Large rather than tiny anole
Broad head and relatively short legs
Green-and-brown camouflage on a long-tailed body
Habitat & range
Premontane and lower montane forest in the Costa Rican highlands, particularly the Talamanca mountain system on both slopes.
Local observations
Native species recorded in Costa Rica. Sightings depend on suitable habitat and locality.
When to observe
Observe on a suitable guided outing. Activity varies with weather, season and locality; do not disturb a resting or hidden animal.
Conservation & care
Observe with an adult from permitted paths. Do not touch, chase, catch or feed reptiles. Leave bark, logs, stones and leaf litter in place. Keep pets away and allow an open escape route.
Threats & pressures
Protect connected habitat and natural shelters. Avoid collection, unnecessary clearing and deliberate killing. Leave wildlife in place and support responsible observation.
Observation activity
Write a new descriptive nickname based on the illustration. Explain why size-based names can confuse us.
Explore by location
Caribbean · Central Highlands · South Pacific · Cartago · Limón · Puntarenas · San José