Namaqua chameleon
A species of Chameleons Scientific name : Chamaeleo namaquensis Genus : Chameleons
Namaqua chameleon, A species of Chameleons
Scientific name: Chamaeleo namaquensis
Genus: Chameleons
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Yathin S Krishnappa , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Namaqua chameleon (Chamaeleo namaquensis) is a ground-living lizard found in the western desert regions of Namibia, South Africa and southern Angola.
General Info
Lifespan
5-7 years
Diet
Namaqua chameleon's diet primarily consists of insects. It possesses a specialized tongue to catch prey, attracting a variety of insects, such as beetles, crickets, and spiders, forming a significant part of its sustenance.
Appearance
Namaqua chameleon is a medium-sized chameleon with a slender body, covered in granular, rough skin. It possesses an earthy grey and brown coloration perfectly suited for its arid habitats. Distinctive features include a long, prehensile tail, swiveling eyes, and a crested, triangular head. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Namaqua chameleon is a solitary creature with territorial tendencies. This chameleon is nocturnal, best adapted to arid environments. It exhibits remarkable camouflage abilities, changing color for communication, thermoregulation or concealment. It hunts by ambush, displaying a distinct 'stop-start' motion. Pairings occur briefly for mating, with females exhibiting vibrant color displays post-mating to discourage further male interest.
Photo By Yathin S Krishnappa , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Chameleons Genus
Chameleons Species
Namaqua chameleon