Chameleons are best known for their ability to change colour to blend in with their surroundings and Jackson's chameleon (Chamaeleo jacksonii) is no exception. This master of camouflage can darken its drab green skin to almost black in less than two minutes. Apart from the obvious advantage this provides when hiding from predators, colour change is used to threaten rivals and to attract their prospective mates.
The long, prehensile tail and feet with toes pointing in opposite directions help Jackson's chameleon to grip branches and spend most of its time in trees, coming to ground level only to mate and lay eggs. After basking in the morning sun it lies in wait for insects or spiders, each eye looking in a different direction. A quick flick with its long, sticky-tipped tongue will take the prey by surprise and bring it back to be chewed and swallowed.
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