Why Do Chameleons Eat Their Exuvia?

Chameleons, like many reptiles, exhibit a behavior of eating their shed skin. This behavior can be explained by several key reasons:

• Nutritional Benefits:

  Shed skin is rich in nutrients such as proteins incl. keratin, calcium and essential minerals. By consuming their shed, chameleons can recycle these nutrients back into their bodies, which is especially beneficial in environments where food sources may be scarce.

• Camouflage and Predator Avoidance:

  Consuming shed skin might help chameleons eliminate evidence of their presence. In the wild, leaving shed skin behind could attract predators, making this behavior a form of self-defense.

• Instinctive Behavior:

  This behavior is instinctual, stemming from evolutionary adaptations that promote survival and health.