National Conservation Zoo

Opening times today: 10am - 4pm (Last entry at 3pm)

About

These astonishing animals are famous for their ability to change colour to match their background, allowing them to conceal themselves from potential predators.

The Parson’s chameleon is one of the world’s largest chameleons and is named after the British physician James Parsons, born in 1705.

This chameleon captures its prey by shooting out its long, sticky tongue, using it like a suction cup.

Like all chameleons, this remarkable species can change colour in response to its surroundings, temperature, and when in the presence of other chameleons, particularly during mating or combat.

Their slow movement and camouflage enable them to catch prey off guard.

Parson's chameleon at Chester Zoo

Parson's chameleon facts

SPECIES
I am a reptile

The Parson's chameleon displays a wide range of colours.

FOUND IN
Madagascar

These chameleons can only be found in small pockets of eastern and northern Madagascar.

HABITAT
Humid forests

Chameleons typically live in hot, moist environments but can also thrive in the cooler temperatures of Madagascar.

DIET
Omnivores

They eat a range of insects and other invertebrates, and may occasionally eat small vertebrates.

BEHAVIOUR
Adaptable and solitary

Chameleons are adapted for climbing and visual hunting, and they change their colours and patterns to blend into their surroundings, hiding from potential predators. They are solitary creatures and do not provide care for their young.

AVERAGE SIZE
Around 68cm long

They can weigh up to 700g.

LIFE SPAN
8 - 10 years

With human care, they can live up to 14 years.

ZOO LOCATION
Tropical Realm

You can find the Parson's chameleon in Tropical Realm.

IUCN red list statusNear Threatened
Animal vulnerability index

Threats

Sadly, this species is near-threatened with extinction. The population of Parson's chameleon has declined by 20% in less than two decades, primarily due to habitat loss driven by slash-and-burn agriculture and logging. Their habitat is fragmented, and these isolated patches are unlikely to be large enough or viable for this stunning species to survive.

Currently, our conservationists are working tirelessly to protect habitats in Madagascar. Learn more about this important work.

Threat Humans
Human intervention
Threat Hunting
Hunting or collection