Standing Out Many chameleons have odd horns, knobby noses, or ruffl ed throats that make them unforgettable. Why? Because sometimes a chameleon wants to get noticed. For the most part, chameleons are loners.


But these odd-looking structures help when they search for mates. T ey also help to fi ght off other males. T e male Jackson’s chameleon, for example, has three giant horns—one from its snout and two above its eyes. T is chameleon looks a little like a miniature triceratops. Male Jackson’s chameleons wield their horns to knock rivals off branches. Chameleons are well-equipped to survive


in their forest homes. T eir color-changing skin shiſt s to meet their needs. Swiveling eyes scan the forest and search for prey and predators. Mittened feet and a wraparound tail keep them sure-footed as they make their way across branches. And when prey is in sight—watch out! A lightning-fast tongue will reel it in for dinner!


Wordwise adaptation: a behavior or body part that helps a plant or animal survive


cell: the building block of all living things melanin: a substance that darkens skin


nanocrystals: colorless crystals that refl ect different amounts of light


pigment: a substance that refl ects colors of light


Some chameleons have horns. They can use them for jousting!


This chameleon dozes while clinging to a branch.


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