Transvaal dwarf chameleon
A species of South african dwarf chameleons Scientific name : Bradypodion transvaalense Genus : South african dwarf chameleons
Transvaal dwarf chameleon, A species of South african dwarf chameleons
Scientific name: Bradypodion transvaalense
Genus: South african dwarf chameleons
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Stuart-Fox D, Moussalli A, , used under CC-BY-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Transvaal dwarf chameleon (Bradypodion transvaalense) is a chameleon native to South Africa, where it is found in forested areas of Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces. It is also known as the Wolkberg dwarf chameleon, after the Wolkberg range.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Transvaal dwarf chameleon is primarily an insectivore, feasting on a variety of invertebrates. This chameleon species shows a particular preference for arthropods like spiders, mites, and beetles.
Appearance
Transvaal dwarf chameleon is a small to medium-sized chameleon with a body length ranging up to 15 inches, boasting a robust body and strikingly large casque on its head. The skin is characterized by a variety of hues, ranging from green to brown, sometimes speckled with white. Notable are its prehensile tail, capable of grasping objects, and its eyes, which move independently. Unlike many species, there's no significant visual distinction based on age or gender.
Behavior
Transvaal dwarf chameleon leads a solitary, arboreal life with behavior marked by an extreme sedentism which contributes to effective camouflage in its habitat. This species rarely descends from trees, maintaining a defined home range. Its diet primarily consists of leaves and insects. Adult males exhibit territorial aggression.
Population
Stable
Photo By Stuart-Fox D, Moussalli A, , used under CC-BY-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Chameleons Species
Transvaal dwarf chameleon