Some chameleons play dead to avoid predation; this is called thanatosis.
The word Furcifer is derived from the Latin word “furci” or forked.
Many chameleon species have a bright red, orange or yellow mouth. This conspicuous interior when displayed is used as a defense against predators.
The oldest known chameleon fossil is from the extinct species Chamaeleo caroliquarti. It was found in Europe and is 26 million years old.
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.
The process of shedding is called ecdysis.
The smallest chameleon species is Brookesia micra with an adult length just over 1 inch (29mm). It hatches from an egg no bigger than a grain of rice!
Kinyongia uthmoelleri and Trioceros quadricornis gracilor have red claws.
The word Bradypodion comes from the latin “bradus podos” or slow foot.