Let's Mix It Up
Here in Florida we have Green Anoles (native) and Brown Anoles (introduced), and they typically don't interbreed. In Cuba, where Brown Anoles are a native species, research shows that they don't hybridize with other populations of lizards. However recent studies are now indicating that Brown Anoles are now breeding with the native Green Anole here in Florida. They apparently abandon their breeding inhibitions when they spread to a new 'location'. Researchers from Washington Univ. in St. Louis are calling this phenomenon 'infraspecific hybridization' and is it's one of the major mysteries of 'invasion biology'. So...all this background for my Blip today. I noticed this little female anole and was enjoying taking her photos when I realized that her coloring and markings were really different! See the *extras...
She appears to be a cross (hybrid) between a Brown and Green Anole. She wasn't able to change her coloring to green in order to blend in with her surrounding. That was my first clue. Also her head is shaped more like a Green than a Brown. And then there are those markings down her back, which are typical of Brown Anoles and not Greens. She is a light khaki color. Fascinating, at least to me!
Tara Update...our Sweet Girl will spend another night at the Vet School. She is doing well except that she isn't able to use her leg as much as they want her to. Said it might have something to do with the anesthesia block wearing off more slowly than normal. :(
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