Parson's chameleon
A species of Cryptic chameleon Scientific name : Calumma parsonii Genus : Cryptic chameleon
Parson's chameleon, A species of Cryptic chameleon
Scientific name: Calumma parsonii
Genus: Cryptic chameleon
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Christophe Germain , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Parson's chameleon (Calumma parsonii) is a large species of chameleon that is endemic to isolated pockets of humid primary forest in eastern and northern Madagascar. It is listed on CITES Appendix II, meaning that trade in this species is regulated. As with the majority of chameleon species from Madagascar, it is illegal to export Parson's chameleons from their native country.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
The dietary habits of parson's chameleon primarily revolve around small arthropods. Its sharp-sightedness allows it to spot and consume various types of insects, including ants, spiders, and small beetles, which compose a significant part of its diet.
Appearance
Parson's chameleon is a large chameleon species known for its vibrant coloration and substantial size. Boasting a slender body, this reptile has granular scales covering its skin. It exhibits creamy-ochre hues, bright yellow markings, and a unique ornamentation of hornlike lobes around its head. On top, it sports a prominent rostral appendage, which is larger in males. It doesn’t have wings, but has a tail often curled into a tight spiral.
Behavior
Parson's chameleon exhibits primarily arboreal, solitary behavior, typically spending the majority of its activity period moving or foraging through vegetation, or basking. This species employs specialized color-changing abilities for communication and camouflage. Regional territory marking is less prominent, with males instead relying on visual cues to discourage competitors.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Christophe Germain , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Chameleons Genus
Cryptic chameleon Species
Parson's chameleon