Chameleons That Live in the Rainforest

There are many different kinds of chameleons that live in various areas of the world. Typically, chameleons live in mountainous areas or desert areas. However, the most common area that a chameleon can be found in is the rainforest. Though not all types of chameleons live in rainforests, there are several different species that inhabit these zones.

  1. Jackson's Chameleon

    • The Jackson's chameleon, or the three-horned chameleon as it is sometimes called, is a chameleon that is commonly found in the forests of Hawaii and the jungle rainforests of Africa. They are naturally green in color and can grow to as long as 12 inches (30.5cm) in total length at matured adulthood. The three-horned chameleons are named as such because they have three horned protrusions growing out of the fronts of their heads at matured adulthood. The Jackson's chameleon reproduce only once or twice in their lifetimes, often producing anywhere from eight to 30 offspring.

    Bearded Leaf Chameleon

    • The bearded leaf chameleon is named as such because of the small "beard" at the base of its mouth that is composed of several raised scales. These types of chameleons are typically found at the base of the Uluguru Mountains in Tanzania near Kenya and Rwanda. They prefer dryer areas. causing them to frequently stay underneath foliage in the rainforest. They are naturally brown in color and only grow to 1 to 3 inches (3 to 8cm) in length. They are non-violent and reclusive, often changing color and bloating when threatened.

    Spectral Chameleon

    • Another chameleon that is native to the African rainforest, the spectral chameleon, is relatively small in appearance, often not exceeding 4 inches (10cm) in length. They are a bland brown in natural color, but are much faster moving than other kinds of rainforest chameleons. They tend to enjoy cooler temperatures, causing them to take residence under trees and bushes. Though they are considered non-territorial, they are more violent than other kinds of chameleons when threatened, often lashing out before running and hiding.

    Behavior of Rainforest Chameleons

    • Though rainforest chameleons vary in appearance, most of them generally act the same in certain situations. Though there are some variables in aggression and habitat, most chameleons in the rainforest prefer cooler and dryer areas, often taking refuge beneath the foliage of the rainforest. Chameleons only group up during the mating season and are otherwise reclusive due to their camouflage nature. Chameleons prey on small bugs and natural food found in the underbrush of their habitat.