Range: Yemen

Habitat: Lightly forested to desert regions. 

Natural Diet: Small insects, and vegetation.

Diet at RainForest: Crickets 

Size: 6-10"

RainForest Facts: Sometimes known as "Old World Chameleons, or True Chameleons, the Veiled belongs to a family of roughly 80 species of lizards.

This endearing lizard is known for it's ability to change colors and hide from predators. 

They have eyes that can move independently and look in two directions at once, as well as swivel nearly 180 degrees. They are therefore able to look in any direction, and even follow moving objects, without turning their heads or shifting body position. When a prey animal is spotted, both eyes will focus on the insect in order to perceive depth.

Chameleons are highly arboreal (tree-living). They have grasping hands that work much like human hands. Three fingers are fused together and face toward the inside. They also have a prehensile tail that they use as a fifth appendage.

The Veiled, or Yemen Chameleon is native to an arid region of the world that experiences cooler night time temperatures than the average chameleon is used to enduring.    

Status in Wild:

Like those of many other animals, wild chameleon populations are experiencing pressures from commercial exploitation and extensive habitat loss. Chameleon populations are particularly sensitive to the problems associated with habitat loss because many chameleon populations have evolved in small, often isolated pockets and are unable to relocate.