Veiled Chameleon
Chamaeleo calyptratus
Least ConcernFast Facts
About
The veiled chameleon is a striking arboreal lizard distinguished by the tall bony 'casque', or helmet, on top of its head. Native to the Arabian Peninsula, it displays bold bands of green, yellow and brown that it can alter with its mood and surroundings.
Like all chameleons it possesses independently swivelling eyes, a prehensile tail and a projectile tongue, making it a superb ambush hunter among the branches.
Behaviour
Chameleons change colour primarily to communicate and to regulate temperature rather than simply to match their backgrounds. A frightened or dominant individual may flush dark or display vivid warning colours.
The tongue can be fired out faster than the eye can follow, striking insects with a sticky, club-like tip.
Did you know?
- A chameleon's eyes move independently, giving it a near 360-degree field of view
- Its tongue can extend to more than twice its body length in a fraction of a second
- Colour change is used mainly for communication and warmth, not camouflage
- The tall casque helps channel dew into the mouth in its dry homeland
Distribution
Mountainous regions of Yemen and south-western Saudi Arabia
