Nature Field Guide
High Anole
- Spanish name
- Anolis de altura
- Scientific name
- Anolis altae
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 High Anole
The high anole has a slender body, relatively short legs and a long tail. Its grayish or reddish-brown colors blend with the small branches of its mountain habitat. A male’s orange throat fan may appear during a natural display, but it is often folded away.
Some closely related anoles are so similar that locality matters as much as appearance. Look at the lizard’s surroundings and record the mountain area as well as its colors. Quiet observation lets you learn without making an animal leave its perch.
Identification
Key Features of the High Anole
Small slender brown body
Relatively short legs
Long tail and subtle camouflage
Habitat & range
Central volcanic highlands, including the Barva, Irazú and northern Alajuela mountain areas.
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 a mountain-forest twig and place a small anole along it. Label the colors that help it blend in.
Explore by location
Central Highlands · Alajuela · Cartago · Heredia · San José