Abstract
Norops (Anolis) bicaorum is a species of anole lizard endemic to Útila Island, Honduras. Unfortunately, their populations are threatened owing to the continual loss of their primary forest habitat and the growing establishment of two invasive anole populations on Útila. While performing a population study on these charismatic lizards at Kanahau Útila Research and Conservation Facility we happened upon a pre-marked individual (#3) seemingly in the process of consuming a leaf. While an observation of herbivory in anoles is surprising enough, this proud male then proceeded to extend his dewlap in a defensive territorial display, all while holding the leaf high in the air! Our prior study suggested that the diet of N bicaorum consists solely of invertebrates, so this unusual and isolated observation remains difficult to interpret. The most plausible explanation is that while ambushing an unsuspecting insect, this male bit off a little more than he could chew, before unknowingly employing the leaf to his advantage when confronted! Unintentional or not, we can't help but imagine: what if anoles could use external resources to visually enhance their dewlap displays?
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