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Abbreviation Legend

  • (CE) - Criticially Endangered
  • (CI) - Critically Imperiled
  • (E) - Endangered
  • (I) - Introduced
  • (IM) - Imperiled
  • (NT) - Near Threatened
  • (T) - Threatened
  • (V) - Vulnerable
  • (**) - Recent Classification Change
Home »» Lizards »» Chamaeleonidae (Chameleons)

Chameleons (Chamaeleonidae) of the United States


Chamaeleonidae are distinguished by their zygodactylous feet, their prehensile tail, their laterally compressed bodies, their head casques, their projectile tongues, their swaying gait, and crests or horns on their brow and snout. Chameleons eyes are independently mobile, and because of this there are two separate, individual images that the brain is analyzing of the chameleon's enviroment. When hunter prey, they focus forward in coordination, affording the animal stereoscopic vision. The eyes are able to move laterally 180° and vertically 160° .

There are 4 species, representing 3 genus found in the United States, all of which are Introduced.

(I)

Veiled Chameleon
(Chamaeleo calyptratus)
(I)

Oustalet's Chameleon
(Furcifer oustaleti)
(I)

Panther Chameleon
(Furcifer pardalis)
(I)

Jackson's Chameleon
(Trioceros jacksonii)
 

 

 

 

Recommended Books at Amazon.com


Handbook of Lizards: Lizards of the United States and of Canada     Lizards of the World: A Guide to Every Family     Texas Lizards: A Field Guide     National Geographic Readers: Lizards



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Disclaimer: ITIS taxonomy is based on the latest scientific consensus available, and is provided as a general reference source for interested parties. However, it is not a legal authority for statutory or regulatory purposes. While every effort has been made to provide the most reliable and up-to-date information available, ultimate legal requirements with respect to species are contained in provisions of treaties to which the United States is a party, wildlife statutes, regulations, and any applicable notices that have been published in the Federal Register. For further information on U.S. legal requirements with respect to protected taxa, please contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

 
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