Nature Field Guide
Ocellated Anadia
- Spanish name
- Anadia ocelada
- Scientific name
- Anadia ocellata
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 Ocellated Anadia
The ocellated anadia has an elongated body, small limbs and a long tail. Its name refers to ocelli: markings that resemble little eyes. Brown and bronze tones suit branches, bark and surrounding vegetation.
This lizard is documented in Costa Rica, including the Monteverde area. It is less familiar than many anoles, making it a useful reminder to look beyond the best-known animal groups. Record the whole shape and habitat without removing an animal from its perch. A long tail is part of a living body, never a handle.
Identification
Key Features of the Ocellated Anadia
Elongated body and short limbs
Long tapering tail
Small eyelike flank markings
Habitat & range
Forested foothill and upland habitats in Costa Rica, including Monteverde, the Aguacate mountains and humid mountain slopes.
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
Find an eyelike marking in the illustration and draw it beside a simple dot to compare the shapes.
Explore by location
Caribbean · Central Highlands · Central Pacific · Northern Plains · South Pacific · Alajuela · Cartago · Heredia · Limón · Puntarenas · San José · Monteverde