Panther chameleon

A panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis) belongs to reptiles (Reptilia) department of the scaly reptiles (Squamata) order, and within this the chameleon (chamaeleonidae) family.

Occurrence: Madagascar native, in the wet bushes of the eastern and northern part of the island. Outside of the main island of Madagascar it can be found in Nosy Bé, Sainte Marie and Nosy Boraha too. They populated the islands of Mauritius and Réunion as well. Quite culture follower sometimes they settle in gardens too.

Appearance: Quite large chameleon species. Males can grow in Madagascar 55 centimeters, while in Reénion it is only maximum 44 centimeters. Females are smaller than males. Extremely diverse species, one of the most colorful chameleons. Each color can occur on it, including a bright turquoise blue as well. On both sides of the head of the males there are ribs, running on the flat end of the muzzle. There can also be a low helmet on the head too.

Reproduction: During courting the male takes a lighter shade to be different from its surroundings, nodding his head to try to attract the attention of the female. If the female is not ready to mate, it will act offensively against males. The mating ceremony lasts about ten minutes. Brood consists of 12-50 eggs. The female lays eggs in a shallow hole in the ground. The young chameleons hatch from the eggs after 159-320 days from laying.