Reptile

Flap necked Chameleon Sightings

Chamaeleo dilepis

Least ConcernPredatorFound in 2 parks

Want to know where and when to find Flap necked Chameleon? opspoor shows recent sightings across South Africa's parks and when each species is usually active.

Where to see Flap necked Chameleon in South Africa

About the Flap necked Chameleon

The flap-necked chameleon is a medium-sized African chameleon found across much of eastern and southern Africa. It has independently moving eyes, a long projectile tongue, a prehensile tail and specialised feet for gripping branches. Its colour can change in response to surroundings, temperature, stress and social interactions. It feeds mainly on insects and other small invertebrates, which it captures with its rapidly extending tongue. It is primarily arboreal and is commonly found in woodland, savanna, gardens and shrubland.

How to identify the Flap necked Chameleon

Medium-sized chameleon with a laterally compressed body, independently moving eyes, grasping feet and a long prehensile tail. Colour varies from green and brown to yellowish or grey, often changing with mood, temperature and surroundings. A distinctive flap-like lobe is present along the rear edge of the head.

Did you know?

Flap-necked Chameleons can move their eyes independently, allowing them to scan two different directions at the same time while remaining relatively motionless.

Also known as: Gewone Verkleurmannetjie, Chameleon

Planning a safari? Pick a park above to see when and where to look for Flap necked Chameleon, and log your own sightings in opspoor, even with no signal.