Threats
Panther chameleon is a popular species in the international pet trade. If market demand continues to rise, it could pose a threat to their wild populations.
Scientific Name
Furcifer pardalis
Other Common Name(s)
Ambilobe Panther Chameleon
Body Weight
Up to 180 g
Body Length
Male: up to 55 cm
Female: up to 35 cm
Habitat
Forests
Diet
Mostly insects, but also some small birds, reptiles and amphibians
Fun Facts
Panther chameleons can change their body colours at will, even on their scaly eyelids. Besides helping them blend into their surroundings as camouflage, these colour changes could also be a form of communication, such as during courtship or to intimidate rivals. They might also have such changes in response to factors such as temperature and humidity in the environments.
Their eyes can rotate and focus independently, providing a 360-degree field of vision. Once they lock onto prey, they launch a sticky tongue that can reach twice their body length and capture their target with incredible speed and powerful suction.
Distribution
Endemic to Madagascar, an island country in eastern Africa, and later introduced to the nearby islands of Réunion and Mauritius
Threats & Conservation
Threats & Conservation
Panther chameleon is a popular species in the international pet trade. If market demand continues to rise, it could pose a threat to their wild populations.
IUCN Red List
Least Concern
CITES
Appendix II
Conservation Regulations
Protected under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) in Hong Kong
