The Meaning Of Chameleon

[TheMentor]

did anyone else know that "Chameleon" was a name given to these reptiles by ancient greeks? the name was given to them because of their strong defensive nature and it actually means "Dwarf Lion". I know its not quite as interesting to you all, but i was watching my little Ferdi walk and i was sort of thinking to myself that he isn't really a lizard to me. He's more like a small tiger, the way he walks when he hunts, how he gets down all low, sort of crawling tauntingly...

i'm a geek, i just thought it was a neat connection

thanks for reading lol

 

[pssh]

That's funny becausethe pardalis part of f. pardalis is similar to ocelot or leopard.

 

[ShaunaLynnA]

That is an interesting fact I never knew! Thanks for sharing. Your right though if you really sit there and watch them walk there like little liond or cats by the way the prowl.

 

[chameleonman57]

That is very interesting.

 

[jojackson]

The Greeks had terrific Imaginations.

 

[Lizardlover]

The Greeks had terrific Imaginations.

So true! Additionally I thought I'd add that rhampholeon means something to the effect of crawling lion or ground lion.

 

[dtown]

I have never looked at it like that..... But when you watch them eat, it is more like watching them hunt. They croutch down, then STRIKE!!! It is definately similar to how a lion hunts their prey. WOW, I feel proud and happy to be a part of this community that loves and respects these animals!! Chameleons are a special breed of reptiles that hold their own.

 

[summoner12]

I didn't know this.. pretty cool!

 

[hallenhe]

As the owner of a panther chameleon, a leopard gecko and a tiger salamander, I think I've cornered the "big cats" collection of herps.