The common chameleon, also known as the Mediterranean chameleon, is a species found in various parts of Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. It has garnered widespread attention due to its remarkable color-changing ability and unique physical characteristics.

This species has a distinctive appearance, including a compressed body, a casque on the head, and a prehensile tail. Adult common chameleons can grow up to 35 centimeters (14 inches) in length. Their skin coloration is highly variable, consisting of a mix of green, brown, and black, which can change depending on factors such as light, temperature, and emotional state. These color changes are facilitated by specialized cells called chromatophores, which contain different pigments that can be rearranged to alter the color of the skin.

The independent movement of each eye allows the common chameleon to have an almost complete panoramic vision, enabling it to look in two different directions simultaneously. This is particularly useful for spotting potential threats or prey without moving its body, which could reveal its presence.

As predators, common chameleons are adept hunters. They primarily feed on insects but are also known to consume spiders and other small invertebrates and occasionally small vertebrates like birds and lizards. Their hunting strategy is of patience and precision; they wait motionless for prey to come within striking distance and then project their sticky, elastic tongue to capture it. The tongue can be twice the length of their body, allowing them to reach prey from a distance.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Algeria

2012

Cyprus

2012

Egypt

2012

Greece

2012

Iraq

2012

Israel

2012

Italy

2012

Introduced

Jordan

2012

Lebanon

2012

Libya

2012

Malta

2012

Morocco

2012

Portugal

2012

Introduced

Saudi Arabia

2012

Spain

2012

Introduced

Syria

2012

Tunisia

2012

Turkey

2012

Yemen

2012