Florida Reptiles are explained in this article. Florida is home to various species, including the Burmese python, six-lined racerunner, and brown anole. This article will help you learn more about these species and what makes them great pets. Then, visit our website to learn more about them! Alternatively, you can visit our reptile rescue center.
Florida Reptiles: Brown Anole
Though brown anole populations are increasing across Florida, efforts are underway to slow the spread of the invasive species. For starters, people should carefully inspect ornamental plants before transporting them. They should also check confined spaces such as boat hulls to prevent the transport of the invasive reptile. In addition, they should make their yards wildlife-friendly by providing food and shelter to native species. Educators and citizens can help stop the spread of brown anoles by providing a haven for these reptiles.
The male brown anole is larger than the females, with a body size of 54mm and a weight of six to eight grams. The females are about the same size as males and weigh three to four grams. The males display a unique dewlap when they approach a female, which may signify mating readiness. On the other hand, the females communicate with each other by their physical size and shape. Large males will intimidate a smaller male, and vice-versa. Mouth fights between closely matched males can result.
Jamaican Giant Anole
You might not know it, but the Jamaican Giant Anole lives in Florida. Unlike their neighbors from other parts of the world, this reptile is native to Jamaica. Its introduction to Florida was mainly for the pet trade. Although they are similar in appearance to iguanas, their presence does not harm the state’s biodiversity. But it is a good idea to know more about these creatures before bringing one to your yard.
The Jamaican Giant Anole is native to Jamaica and was introduced to Florida as a pet. This large reptile can grow up to five inches long. Like other Anoles, the care of the Jamaican Giant Anole is the same, except for its larger size and higher food and water requirements. However, the large size makes it a gorgeous addition to any home!
Florida Reptiles: Six-Lined Racerunner
The six-lined racerunner is a lizard species in Florida, and the state is home to some of the fastest creatures on earth. It can reach speeds of up to 18 mph, and it’s known for being extremely fast. Because it’s so fast, it’s a difficult animal to catch. They tend to be active during the hottest times of the day so they can be elusive.
Although six-lined race runners are common throughout their range, they consider it threatened in a few states, including Michigan and Florida. They prefer open woodlands, scrubby areas, and coastal dunes and avoid damp habitats. They typically move into burrows during cooler weather, so the presence of fire suppression will only complicate management efforts. Nevertheless, their innate diversity means that they should remain on your radar, regardless of the size of your backyard.
Florida Reptiles: Burmese Python
Whether you’re searching for a pet snake or are just curious about its behavior, the Burmese Python in Florida is a great choice for the warm, humid climate. They’re often found in swamps, undeveloped seasonal wetlands, tree islands, and mangrove salt marshes. They also live in prairies and have been found in Brazilian pepper stands. They usually stay well hidden in dense vegetation, and their python-like body forms are almost impossible to see against a background.
While they may have a reputation as docile animals, Burmese pythons can kill their keepers with constriction. Because of their large size and appetite, Burmese pythons need large enclosures. Because they can become invasive, Florida is now banning them from being introduced to the state. This has led to some concerns and legislation. Here are a few ways to protect your python.
Florida Reptiles: Green Iguana
The green iguana is a popular pet in Florida. They know their unique personality and can live for 20 years or more if properly cared for. Their unique characteristics include being very strong swimmers, excellent climbers, and docile. They will dive into the water to protect themselves if they sense a threat. During the day, they are active, basking in rocks, sidewalks, and sea walls. At night, they sleep in caves.
The green iguana finds in a wide variety of habitats, including tropical forests, coastal uplands, exotic plant communities, low-density suburban developments, and areas around core urban areas. In Florida, the species distribute widely and thinks to have reached Lee, Collier, and Broward counties. It believes that the iguana arrived in Florida from South America via the pet trade and has since expanded its distribution throughout the state.
