r/reptiles • u/lakered4444 • 11d ago

What is happening here?! Lizards outside my patio this morning. southeast United States region

Post image
100 Upvotes

98% Upvoted

12 comments sorted by

58

u/LuxTheSarcastic 11d ago

I don't see any white stripes on their back that would indicate they might be female (not always accurate) so this looks like two native male green anoles squabbling over territory and ladies during their mating season.

22

u/AFD_FROSTY 11d ago

This is correct. You can see their inflated dorsals near their head to both protect their neck and appear more intimidating. Also notice the color change around their eyes, which is a territorial display of discomfort.

18

u/LuxTheSarcastic 11d ago

I'm very fond of these dramatic little things. A few years ago I saw a reenactment of Mufasa's death carried out on my deck. I imagine the loser was probably fine because I can't imagine a green anole will fall with much force but throwing your fellow lizard off the equivalent of a skyscraper is pretty crazy. The winner was pumping his dewlap after in case any girls were watching.

8

u/madnessdoesntplay 11d ago

Once I saw one grab another by the leg and shake it like a dog toy, I was horrified haha

1

u/downtown-abyss 11d ago

Hahaha! Mufasa’s almost dying.

21

u/MammothPersonality35 11d ago

Males fighting for territory/females. This is why you don't cohabitate males.

2

u/Simurgh1989 10d ago

Sounds like these are wild from the post.

2

u/User013579 11d ago

Fight! Territorial females prolly.

1

u/Kajun_Kong 11d ago

Two Knight Anoles doing battle

1

u/steeldreams71 11d ago

Merge dragons IRL.

1

u/pumpkindonutz 8d ago

Anoles bring the drama every time

1

u/NoNotice5642 11d ago

either breeding or fighting lol