Gravid Coloration in Female Chameleons

After conception, gravid female chameleons often exhibit distinct coloration changes, reflecting hormonal changes associated with gravidity. 

• Females of some species are very conspicuous, colorful and contrastful: especially females of chameleons of the genera Chamaeleo and Furcifer.

• Females of some species amerelyb change their coloration: e.g. females of chameleons of the genera Bradypodion, Rhampoholeon, Rieppeleon and Brookesia.

They often display bright colors, such as yellows, oranges, reds, some species use even blues, purples, whites. Additionally, darker shades like browns or blacks may appear, as a background. 

1. Intraspecific Communication: the gravid colours and patterns primarily serve as a warning signal to males, indicating that they are not receptive to mating, to keep their distance, ensuring the females can focus on the crucial stages of pregnancy without disruption.

2. Heat Gain: The gravid dark background colours are aiding in thermoregulation by absorbing more infrared rays from the sunlight, essential for maintaining the proper temperature for egg (oviparous species) or embryonic development (in viviparous species).