Nature Field Guide
Bridled Anole
- Spanish name
- Anolis con bridas
- Scientific name
- Anolis frenatus
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 Bridled Anole
The bridled anole is a large, long-legged tree lizard. Its greenish background and dark oblique markings can blend with broken light high in a forest. A pale bar edged with darker color crosses the head between the eyes.
A canopy animal may be present without being easy to see. Binoculars let you study a branch from the trail while leaving the animal’s space intact. Compare its whole shape with other large anoles rather than naming it from green color alone. Protecting tall forest protects the hidden world above our heads.
Identification
Key Features of the Bridled Anole
Large tree anole with long legs
Dark oblique markings on greenish tones
Pale interorbital head bar
Habitat & range
Lowland wet forest at scattered Caribbean-slope and southwestern Pacific localities.
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
Look at a tree canopy with binoculars. Draw the different branch layers without searching off the trail.
Explore by location
Caribbean · Northern Plains · South Pacific · Alajuela · Heredia · Limón · Puntarenas