Chameleons are unique lizards

                        Chameleons

Chameleons are unique lizards that live in a variety of climates and locations. Half of all the species are from Madagascar and the rest can be found in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

Chameleons are arboreal and have adapted to live their lives in trees. They are carnivores that feed primarily on insects, but some will also eat small reptiles and other vertebrates.

Chameleons have some amazing physical features. Most have eyes that move independently and have a very long projectile tongue. Some species can extend their tongue up to twice the length of the body.

They have a prehensile tail that helps them climb and balance on branches. To aid a life in trees, their hands and feet have fused to be pincer-like which helps them grasp branches. These reptiles also have flattened bodies, another adaptation for an arboreal lifestyle.

They are often colorful lizards and can be green, blue, brown, black, orange, yellow, as well as other colors. Some can change their color which can represent emotions like fear or anger, or it is used as a way to regulate heat. A few species color change to blend into their surroundings and hide from predators.

Chameleons vary greatly in size, color, and longevity. The smallest species is less than two inches long and the largest can be up to thirty inches long. They live fairly short lives and depending on the species can live from a few years up to around ten years.

If you are prepared to properly care for a chameleon and set up an ideal habitat, it can be a wonderful pet. These fascinating lizards are amazing to watch and observe.