Brookesia superciliaris, Masters of Leaf Camouflage

Brookesia superciliaris, one of Madagascar's leaf chameleons, is a small, cryptic species inhabiting humid lowland and mid-elevation rainforest. Adults measure only a few centimeters, with a laterally compressed body, short tail, and characteristic supraocular "eyebrow" projections that give the species its name. Their coloration blends seamlessly with leaf litter—mottled browns, greys, and muted greens—providing exceptional camouflage.

During daylight hours, B. superciliaris actively cruises through the forest floor, foraging among fallen leaves and debris. Their slow, deliberate movements and cryptic patterning render them almost invisible against the substrate. At night, individuals ascend slightly onto twigs or low vegetation to sleep, reducing predation risk.

This species is a well known representative of Madagascar's microchameleons, illustrating extreme habitat specialization and camouflage strategies. The accompanying video was produced in cooperation between Petr Nečas and Bill Strand, who documented the species together in Andasibe, Madagascar, highlighting its remarkable behavior and near-invisibility in the leaf litter.