Meller's chameleon

Scientific name: Chamaeleo melleri

Family Classification: Chamaeleonidae

Common names: Meller's Chameleon, Giant One-horned Chameleon

IUCN Red List Category: Not Listed

Countries: New Guinea

Description: Meller's chameleons are also called "giant one-horned chameleons" because of their large size and the small horn protruding from the front of their snouts. This species is the largest species of chameleon from the African mainland. Their stout bodies can grow to be up to 60 cm (1.9 ft) long and weigh more than 500g (1.1 lb).

Maximum adult length: 60 centimetres (1.9 ft)

Diet and predation: Like most chameleons, Meller's chameleons are strict carnivores, eating insects, smaller lizards, spiders, worms and caterpillars. Large specimens have been known to eat small birds.

Conservation status: Exotic pet enthusiasts often attempt to keep Meller's chameleons as pets. However, they are highly susceptible to even the slightest level of stress and are very difficult to care for in captivity. In the wild they can live as long as 12 years.