How do chameleons change color?

The chameleon is famous for changing color. It looks like a magic trick: one moment it is green and the next it is orange or blue. But there is a lot of science behind it. How does it do it and why?

A skin with crystals

A chameleon skin has cells with tiny crystals that reflect light. When the animal relaxes or gets excited, those crystals change their spacing and reflect different colors. It also has pigments that help with the change.

It is not just camouflage

Many people think chameleons change color to hide, but they do it mostly to communicate and to control their temperature. They darken to absorb more heat and lighten to reflect it.

Colors with a message

Males show bright colors to attract females or to impress other males. When they feel threatened or angry, they also change shade. Colors are their way of talking.

Eyes that turn on their own

Chameleons can move each eye independently, so they can look in two directions at once. When they spot prey, they point both eyes at it.

A super-fast tongue

To catch insects, they shoot out their tongue, which can be longer than their own body, in a fraction of a second. Its tip is sticky and grabs the prey instantly.

Feet and tail for climbing

Their toes are grouped into pincers that grip branches, and they have a curly tail. They move slowly and calmly, swaying like leaves moved by the wind.

A fun fact

Chameleons live mostly in Africa and Madagascar. Some are tiny and measure just a few centimeters, while others grow beyond fifty.

Activity: draw your colors

Draw a chameleon and color its body with the colors it would use when it is calm, happy or angry. Which colors would you choose?

Something to think about

Every animal has its own strategies for communicating and surviving. Chameleons use color, while other animals use sounds or smells. What do you think you would use if you could not talk?