Nature Field Guide
Copper Anole
- Spanish name
- Anolis cobrizo
- Scientific name
- Anolis cupreus
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 Copper Anole
Copper anoles can look tan, brown or coppery, with variable darker markings and pale spots or bars. Their long tail and alert posture are useful features to notice before looking for finer details.
This anole occurs in a variety of wooded and altered settings. The animal you see near a garden may be using the same kinds of small perches as one at a forest edge. Watch where it pauses and how it moves between perches. Do not make it run or display for a photograph.
Identification
Key Features of the Copper Anole
Tan-to-coppery brown body
Variable spots, bars or darker markings
Long tail and low-perching posture
Habitat & range
Northwestern and western Pacific slope, including Guanacaste, Monteverde and Quepos, with populations in the Central Valley.
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
Make a perch tally from a distance: branch, fence, trunk or ground. Record what the animal chooses.
Explore by location
Central Highlands · Central Pacific · Central Valley · Guanacaste · Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands · Alajuela · Cartago · Guanacaste · Puntarenas · San José · Monteverde · Quepos