Getting anole and have questions

[leogecko88]

I am planning on getting a green anole around the end of November. I have been doing lots of research about them by way of books and several websites. I've got some questions that I hope you guys can answer.

1. Should I use a 2.0 or 5.0 UVB bulb? I can't find any info this.
2. My resources say to keep the basking spot at 85-90 degrees. What do you keep your anole's basking site at?
3. Do they need hiding spots? If so, how should they be made?
4. How can I keep the anole from darting out of the tank when I remove the screen cover for feeding and maintenance?

 

[steve905]

A 5.0 should work fine make sure you have branches that get close to the light so your lizard can regulate his exposure. Also, they like branches and I've used silk vines to offer cover. Good luck on the darting thing mine always did. You can offer food at night while they sleep so its avail. in the morning. Good luck!

 

[Matt K]

In a properly set up enclosure, you will not have a problem with the Anole darting out- it will prefer to hide instead. Darting out is a last ditch panic option of thiers.

I use two 10.0 UVB bulbs over most of my Anolis cages - I have 19 species of them - however with the common green anole (Anolis carolinensis) you can do fine with one 10.0 bulb and one broad spectrum bulb that is available at local; hardware stores for 'plants and aquariums' in general. Temps should range from 80 to 88 degrees however you arrange that. They are a shrub ecomorph so plenty of branches will make them comfortable and perhaps a potted pothos ivy in there as well. They drink from misting the cage every other day or 2-3 times a week well....often the ones you see in a pet shop are a little thin due to dehydration. They feed on crickets or roaches best that are half the size of thier head.

Anoles are great fun and very active during the day, so fun to watch. Enjoy!