chameleons are native to Madagascar and 51 of some 75 known species are found only here. Known for their ability to change color, they are slow moving lizards with prehensile tails and toes arranged in opposing pairs, ideal for grasping twigs. Their turreted eyes move quite independently, and it is a treat to watch them collect insects with a rapidly extended and sticky tongue which reaches about the length of the chameleon.

The name is from the Greek, meaning "ground lion".