Calumma parsonii

Parson's Chameleons are primarily arboreal and solitary creatures, spending their time on trees or shrubs, where they blend into the foliage. They are slow-moving and use their color-changing ability to communicate and camouflage themselves, especially when threatened.

Breeding takes place during Madagascar’s rainy season, with males using visual displays to attract females. After mating, females lay eggs, which hatch after an incubation period of around 9 to 12 months. The hatchlings are independent from birth, already capable of climbing.

Parson's Chameleons are known for their large size, with some males reaching up to 68 cm (27 inches) in length. Their color-changing ability, which helps them regulate temperature and communicate, is one of the most notable features of this species. They have large, independently moving eyes that provide a 360-degree view of their surroundings.

Native to Madagascar, Parson's Chameleon is one of the largest and most iconic species among the chameleons. It has been a subject of fascination for researchers and pet enthusiasts alike due to its size, color, and unique behaviors.

Parson's Chameleon is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, with its population threatened by habitat loss, the pet trade, and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on protecting Madagascar’s tropical forests and regulating the international pet trade to ensure the survival of this species.