A LIZARD found in a bunch of bananas in a York supermarket was so relieved to be rescued that he changed colour from red to green.

The lizard - identified as a green anole lizard - was red-brown when found, a sign of stress, said an RSPCA spokeswoman.

But after the reptile was taken to the charity's centre in York, he turned a bright green.

She said anole lizards were kept as exotic pets in the UK but it is thought this lizard, which is native to the USA and Caribbean, found his way into the country in a shipment of bananas.

The lizard had managed to get his feet stuck on a sticky label on the bananas and was unable to get free.

Workers at the supermarket freed the lizard and took him to the RSPCA centre in York on Monday. 

He was then picked up by RSPCA Animal Collection Officer Leanne Honess-Heather and he is now being looked after by a reptile specialist in Scarborough.

ACO Honess-Heather said: “When I went to get the lizard out of my van I saw he was a completely different colour - he was as green as an apple, presumably as he had calmed down and was feeling more secure.

“I thought; he must really like my driving! I’m pleased we were able to help him and hopefully he will now be able to find an owner who can give him the specialist care he needs.”

To help the RSPCA continue to rescue, rehome and rehabilitate animals, visit www.rspca.org.uk/give.