Chameleons do not primarily change their coloration to blend with the environment, but use it mainly for communication and thermoregulation purposes. A very special case occurs when females, due to changes in hormonal levels, begin to show a very specific coloration after conception. The purpose of this discoloration is to deliver a clear message...
Chameleons are often viewed as examples of animals that change color to blend in with their environment. This understanding is incorrect.
Panther chameleons are beautiful creatures. Male panther chameleons are known for their vibrant colors, which come in various shades, including pink, red, orange, yellow, blue, and green. In contrast, females usually present more modest colors, often in shades of gray, brown, orange, black and white. However, some females can be quite colorful,...
Researchers from the African Amphibian Conservation Research Group, led by Fortunate M. Phaka, studied the use of chameleons in traditional medicine at urban markets in South Africa, visiting six cities. They identified 33 species of reptiles and one amphibian species used for medical purposes. Interviews with 11 traditional healers revealed that...
Furcifer verrucosus is a notably shy and nervous chameleon species that tends to react defensively to perceived threats, including humans. Its typical response includes hissing, opening its mouth wide, and displaying threatening behaviors.
Furcifer verrucosus, commonly known as the warty chameleon, spiny chameleon, or crocodile chameleon, is a species of reptile endemic to Madagascar. It was first described by Georges Cuvier in 1829. It inhabits the dry, hot regions of southern and western Madagascar. These chameleons are highly adaptable and can survive in heavily disturbed...
A recent study confirms the occurrence of the Namaqua Chameleon in the Namibe province (sites A and D on the map), SW Angola at two sites, together with new records of other reptiles first reported from here…
After several weeks of gravidity, female chameleons descend to the ground to deposit their eggs, leaving them alone for the months required for incubation. During this time, the females become quite heavy and less agile, making them vulnerable. Consequently, this process typically occurs in a secretive and rapid manner. Observations of females...
Many captive chameleons die in terrible pain due to respiratory infections. The primary cause is improper captive parameters, specifically a combination of:
One of the hydration methods in chameleon husbandry, in addition to nighttime fogging and misting, is the use of liquid water from various drippers. These can be purchased at pet stores or improvised using a cup with a perforated bottom or a similar contraption. A simple approach is to place an ice cube on the mesh top of the cage,...
RESPONSIBLE HERPETOCULTURE JOURNAL ISSUE #19 RELEASED!!!OUR JOURNAL IS PREPARED BY A PROFESSIONAL TEAM OF EDITORS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD: UKRAINE, UK, USA, GERMANY, COSTA RICA, CHINA and AUSTRALIATHIS IS THE 1ST RHJ ISSUE PUBLISHED IN 2025!
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Welcome to the curious world of chameleons and their rather fascinating and flamboyant hemipenes — yes, that's right, not just one, but two of these ornate copulatory organs! When it comes to reptilian romance, they certainly don't skimp on the bling. Better yet, the name itself might just tickle your linguistic fancy.
Chameleons are fascinating reptiles known for their unique appearance, features and strategies. One of their noteworthy biological features is the presence of two copulatory organs called hemipenes (singular hemipenis). These structures are located in specialized pockets at the base of their tails, known as "hemipeneal pockets".
When they are thirsty, they drink.
When they are well hydrated, they hide from rain and sleep.
In November 2023, a remarkable piece of information was shared on Facebook regarding the appearance of a leucistic, patternless Namaqua chameleon, Chamaeleo namaquensis, among offspring of this species in captivity. This animal is extraordinary and has never been reported in the wild. Its unique white coloration, devoid of any protective melanin,...
Based on analysis of the East African populations of Chamaeleo dilepis - complex, the following surprising taxonomic changes are made:
Chamaeleo zeylanicus, commonly known as the Asian Chameleon, has a fragmented distribution in Sri Lanka, India, and Pakistan (Nečas, 1999; Tilbury, 2019; Sindaco & al.). Itis the only chameleon species found in India. Its distribution spans the entire peninsular region of the country, from the Western Ghats to the Eastern Ghats, and extending into...
You would think the hardest thing about observing chameleons in the wild is finding them, when in fact the hardest thing is getting attached to seeing them day after day and then one day they are gone, either because they moved on or they died. They are endearing creatures that if you look closely you will see what makes each...
Chamaeleo ruspolii belongs to the least known chameleon species at all due to its restricted range in hardly accessible region in the Horn of Africa. Recently, evidence of their existence was secured almost a century after the last specimen was collected, Photos of life specimens are presented together with information on their biotope, and their...
Severe Case of Metabolic Bone Disease in Yemen Chameleon, Chamaeleo calyptratus (Sauria: Chamaeleonidae)
Chameleons can achieve impressive lifespans in captivity, contrary to the more common reports suggesting they typically live only a few years. This discussion draws on three case studies: females of Furcifer pardalis, a male Furcifer pardalis, and a male Calumma parsonii. These cases highlight significant age records for these species and analyze...
...they can shoot, kill, chew, swallow and digest them…
Chameleons exhibit color changes influenced by several factors. Primarily, they possess specialized cells called chromatophores that contain different pigments and can expand or contract to alter skin color. The guanophores retract the light on guanine crystal and ceeate additional color effects. Environmental factors such as temperature, light,...
New Species Chameleon Research in Madagascar: SEED Madagascar has recently identified a potentially new species of chameleon in the littoral forests of Sainte Luce, southeast Madagascar. Previously thought to be a known species, genetic evidence has revealed that this chameleon, referred to as Palleon cf. nasus, is genetically distinct. The...
The Nguru Mountains in Tanzania, known for their rich biodiversity, continue to astonish researchers with new discoveries. Recently, Joseph Mboya's expedition to this mountainous region highlighted a previously unidentified population of chameleons from the genus Rhampholeon. This genus is renowned for its unique morphological features, like...
Enjoy reading the new issue of this periodical, dedicated solely to chameleons...
Chameleons can be separated into two main groups based on their reproductive strategies: viviparous and oviparous species.
Brookesia decaryi, commonly referred to as the spiny leaf chameleon or Decary's leaf chameleon, is a captivating species endemic to Madagascar. Initially described by Fernand Angel in 1939, this small reptile belongs to the Chamaeleonidae family and is noted for its distinctive appearance and behavior.
Semiadult (left) and adult (middle) and hatchling (right) of Calumma crypticum, courtesy Patrick Andriamihaja
