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Peruvian bush-anole

Polychrus peruvianus

240311 PZ Peruvian Bush Lizard Jamie Matthews 01
IUCN Conservation Status –
Least Concern
Extinct In The Wild
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Family: Polychrotidae

The Peruvian Bush-Anole is native to Peru, with a small number found in Equador. They typically forage on trees and shrubs at heights ranging from 1.5 to 7 meters above the ground. They are a medium-sized lizard characterized by its slender body, pronounced dorsal crest, chameleon-like eyes, and exceptionally long, semi-prehensile tail.

You can find our Peruvian bush-anole in Tropical Trails. You might have to be a little patient to spot him in his enclosure, try looking up!

Interesting facts!

  • They have a dewlap, a flap of skin under their chin that they can expand to display to other males or attract females.
  • When stressed they can adopt a predominantly brown dorsal colouration, which is why these lizards are commonly referred to as “chameleons”

Conservation

The Peruvian bush-anole is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List. This is due to a continuous decline of its dry forest habitat. The regions where this species is found are struck with numerous threats, including logging, agricultural expansion, mining, and hydroelectric projects.