common chameleon Facts
Chamaeleo chamaeleon
The common chameleon or Mediterranean chameleon (Chamaeleo chamaeleon) is a species of chameleon native to the Mediterranean Basin and parts surrounding the Red Sea.
- Diet
- The common chameleon is insectivorous, capturing insects by stealth and the rapid extension of its long tongue, which has a terminal pad which grasps and adheres to the prey.
- Lifespan
- Up to 3.6 years (maximum recorded longevity)
common chameleon Facts at a Glance
The common chameleon or Mediterranean chameleon (Chamaeleo chamaeleon) is a species of chameleon native to the Mediterranean Basin and parts surrounding the Red Sea.
It belongs to the family Chamaeleonidae in the order Squamata. This profile is designed as a concise starting point; the source names below document the review basis.
common chameleon Conservation Status
common chameleon is listed here as Least Concern. Protecting habitat, maintaining healthy prey or food sources, and reducing human pressure are important parts of conserving wild populations.
Quick facts
- Lifespan
- Up to 3.6 years (maximum recorded longevity)
Fun facts
- Adult animals, especially males, will eat young that they encounter.
- It also uses its prehensile tail to maintain balance and stability.
- Movement is usually leisurely, often with a slight swaying motion to avoid detection by predators.
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Sources and image credit
Animal facts are reviewed against the references below. The photograph remains available under the stated license.