Leave!

  Darling Daughter and I were out meandering the hillside when we came across a lizard.  Well, although we see a ton of lizards about the Bayou area, this one seemed to be a likely playtoy.  She and I both had the same idea that it would be great fun to hold the thing so we set about trying to coax it towards us.  The lizard had other thoughts and refused to budge a single inch toward our open hands.  I decided to let well enough alone but Elizabeth was quite persistent that she needed to befriend the lizard. Since coaxing did not work, she started easing herself closer to the critter.  With each inch she pushed her hand in its direction, the lizard moved an equal amount in the opposite way.  No progress was being made in the effort to hold the creature.  After a bit, she gave up on the idea and we started just admiring our friend from afar.

  We both noticed the stance that the lizard took when it perceived us as a threat.  It turned sideways to us and raised a large ridge down its back and up along its head.  Almost immediately, a dark black patch became noticeable under its eye and, while it was edging away from us, it also was not being frightened.  Two giant humans were intruding on its territory, yet, it was not admitting defeat.  The three actions were territorial reflexes.  The lizard was protecting its home against predators!

  The Green Anoles are interesting critters if folks ever take the time to observe them.  They actually are quite pretty with their bright green, brown or grey colors and are also quite helpful to have in the garden. It is said that the brighter green males are the dominant creatures of the species and can easily intimidate other anoles.  They will fight for their territory! Females are slightly smaller than the males and are not as aggressive.   Being semi-arboreal, the anoles help keep the fruit trees free from pests.  I am glad this one made a dash for the orange tree as it will help keep the white flies in check!  

  And...as an added note...Green Anoles are mistakenly called Chameleons.  They are not!  They are actually in the iguana family and are not kin to the true Chameleons.  They can, however, move their eyes independent of each other.  One eye may be looking up while the other is down!  Cool, huh!