Nature Field Guide
Salvin’s Anole
- Spanish name
- Anolis de Salvin
- Scientific name
- Anolis salvini
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “What can we learn from this reptile’s shape?”
Tati: “Let’s notice its markings and habitat while leaving it plenty of space.”
Species overview
About the Salvin’s Anole
Salvin’s anole has short legs and a compact, lichen-patterned body. Gray and brown mottling can make it look like another piece of a mossy branch. It is a different species from the lichen anoles of the lowlands.
Older references may call it Anolis vociferans. Its known Costa Rican range is associated with Pacific-facing Talamanca highlands. Compare elevation and location as well as markings. Never catch an animal to hear a sound or make it display; natural behavior is the only behavior an explorer needs to observe.
Identification
Key Features of the Salvin’s Anole
Short legs and compact outline
Mottled barklike pattern
Mountain-forest setting
Habitat & range
Pacific premontane and lower montane forests of Talamanca, from the central-southern highlands toward the Panama border.
Local observations
Native reptile recorded in Costa Rica. Presence depends on suitable habitat and locality.
When to observe
Observe on permitted paths with an adult or qualified guide. Activity varies by species, place and weather; never disturb a hiding or resting animal.
Conservation & care
Observe from permitted paths with an adult. Do not touch, chase, catch or feed reptiles. Leave bark, stones, logs and leaf litter in place. Keep pets away and give animals an open escape route.
Threats & pressures
Protect natural shelters and connected habitat. Avoid collection, unnecessary clearing and deliberate killing. Leave wildlife in its habitat and support responsible observation.
Observation activity
Draw its bark camouflage and compare it with lichen on a branch without collecting either.