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Chameleon (Parson's)

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Calumma parsonii
Parson's Chameleon

Range

They are found on the island of Madagascar.

Habitat

They live up in the canopy of the forest.

Body Traits

They are the largest chameleon in the world at 24 inches long (60 cm). They are yellow to several shades of green. They have a large, triangle-shaped head with bumpy ridges and horns. They have cone-shaped eyes that each move on their own, so they can look at two things at once. They have yellow eyelids. They have a very long tongue with a fat end that is sticky to catch prey. Their body is flattened from side to side. Their toes are glued together into two, clawed fingers. This helps them hold onto branches. They have a long tail.

Habits

Their skin can change color when the temperature or light changes or if they are alarmed or aggressive.

Diet

They eat insects, small birds and other chameleons.

Predators

They are killed by snakes and eagles. They are threatened by overcollection for the pet trade.

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Reproduction

Females lay eggs in a hole they dig in the sand and then cover them over and leave them. They can take up to 2 years to hatch.

Lifespan and/or Conservation Status

Unknown

Chameleon (Parson's)

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Lacertilia
Family: Chamaeleonidae
Subfamily: Chamaeleoninae
Genus: Calumma
Species: C. parsonii

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