Malagasy Chameleons

The name "chameleon" means, "Earth lion" it's derived from the Greek words "chamai" (on the ground, on the earth) and "leon" (lion)[don’t you just love wikipedia, makes you feel intelligent]. Approximately half of the worlds chameleon species are endemic to Madagascar, so if you really enjoy the little critters I would advise you go there.

Anyways, here is a selection of chameleons encountered by us (the Andasibe Lads) whilst on our volunteer experience in Madagascar. I apologise in advance for the lack of names or useful information.

Everyone's favourite, the Parson's chameleon (Calumma parsonii). I beleive this is a male Parson's and is distinguished by the two rather large horns and the overall massive size. Parson's chameleon is a contender for the largest chameleon and can exceed 60cm in length.

Another contender for the largest chameleon. Oustalet’s chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti) is found in the drier west of Madagascar.

At a guess Brookesia superciliaris. Apparently its bad luck to come anywhere near these guys - perhaps that’s why we were ill over Christmas.

Aleo mahatsidia Zanahary
Toy izay mahatsidia Ranovary.
It would be better to trample a divinity
Than trample a Brookesia.

Male Willsi’s chameleon (Furcifer willsii) with its rather groovy two-pronged head gear and white lipstick.

Female Furcifer willsii. Rather pretty dappled effect, don’t you think?

OK so there are loads more but it seems that the post only contains a certain amount of picture space, which I have used up. Someone else will put some up in another post im sure.

Phil Cooley