Knight Anole (Anolis equestris equestris) 9 November 2015. Criadero de Cocodrilos, Matanzas, CU

This is the world's largest Anole growing up to 20", rarely even larger. This was a particularly large example. It is native to Cuba but has been introduced to southern Florida where it is established locally. They are largely arboreal and are known to prey on bird eggs and nestlings. This species is polymorphic with overall color varying from green to brown. Proper pronunciation of "Anole" is disputed by various authorities and appears to be unresolved. See:

http://www.anoleannals.org/2011/02/18/the-proper-pronunciation-of-anole/

Eleven different subspecies have been described. I originally tentatively assigned this one to A. e. juraguensis based on the range map on page 257 in "Amphibians and Reptiles of the West Indies" by Schwartz & Henderson (1991). Preview. However after reviewing the detailed descriptions in Schwartz & Garrido (1972) I believe this individual is a better match for nominate A. e. equestris. I base this primarily on the yellowish occipital patch and contrasting blue color on its head. The range map in Schwartz & Garrido does not include this particular locality but nominate is geographically close.

Reference:
Schwartz, A. and Garrido, O.H. 1972. The lizards of the Anolis equestris complex in Cuba. Stud. Fauna Curaçao and Carib. Is. 39 (134):1-86. [PDF]

Canon PowerShot SX50 HS
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