Pygmy chameleons are sometimes referred to as False Chameleons. This term is actually incorrect and is in reference to anoles, particularly the Cuban False Anole.
Trioceros goetzei (Goetze’s Chameleon) emits an audible, high pitched whistle when threatened.
The oldest known chameleon fossil is from the extinct species Chamaeleo caroliquarti. It was found in Europe and is 26 million years old.
Chameleons do have taste buds on their tongue but overall they have a poor sense of taste.
The largest chameleon species by weight is Calumma parsonii (Parson’s Chameleon).
The word Bradypodion comes from the latin “bradus podos” or slow foot.
The word Kinyongia is from the Swahili word for chameleons: Kinyonga.
The word Furcifer is derived from the Latin word “furci” or forked.
Furcifer labordi (Labord’s Chameleon) has the shortest lifespan of only 4-5 months. It also has the shortest lifespan of any tetrapod!
Kinyongia uthmoelleri and Trioceros quadricornis gracilor have red claws.