Indian Chameleon Predated by Birds

A short communication compiles seven confirmed cases of avian predation on the Indian chameleon (Chamaeleo zeylanicus) between 2012 and 2023, based on field observations from India and Sri Lanka. All records involve C. zeylanicus as prey, highlighting its vulnerability to a diverse range of bird species.

Documented predators include:

• Greater coucal (Centropus sinensis) – observed capturing a chameleon in Bhadreshwar, western India.

• Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) – photographed carrying and consuming a chameleon in Janbughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, eastern India.

• Crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela) – observed feeding on chameleons in the Kolli Hills (southern India) and hunting in Wilpattu National Park (Sri Lanka), with four separate records.

• Malabar pied hornbill (Anthracoceros coronatus) – recorded as a predator in Wilpattu National Park.

These observations represent the first consolidated evidence of avian predation on C. zeylanicus, suggesting that birds may play a more significant role in regulating chameleon populations than previously recognized. The study emphasizes the need for further ecological research on predator-prey dynamics involving arboreal reptiles in South Asia.

Reference:

Vyas, Raju. 2025. "Avian Predators of the Indian Chameleon Chamaeleo zeylanicus." *Biodiversity Observations* 15:96–98. https://doi.org/10.15641/bo.152.