The panther chameleon is one of Madagascar’s most colourful reptiles. Males from different regions show strikingly different colours, from turquoise to red and orange.
Interesting facts
- Each eye can move independently, giving almost 360-degree vision.
- Its tongue shoots out faster than the eye can follow, to about body length.
- Panther chameleons from different areas have different colour patterns.
- Their feet are fused into two opposing groups, ideal for gripping branches.
- Males flash bright colours to rivals and females.
- Madagascar holds around half of the world’s chameleon species.
Behaviour
Chameleons move slowly and deliberately, rocking to mimic leaves in the wind, and catch insects with a lightning-fast projectile tongue.
Breeding and young
Females lay clutches of 10 to 40 eggs in the ground; hatchlings are independent.
Threats and conservation
Habitat loss and collection for the pet trade, which is regulated under CITES.
Where to see it
- Nosy Be and Ankarana, Madagascar
- Northern Madagascar’s dry forests
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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