Spotlight on Furcifer petteri

Furcifer petteri is a medium-sized chameleon native to northern Madagascar, especially in regions like Ankarana and Amber Mountain National Park. It typically inhabits shrubs and hedges at heights of 1–2 meters, often spotted along roadsides and gardens near Joffreville. Unlike rainforest dwellers, this species prefers residual forests and open vegetation.

Adults reach 15–17 cm in length. Both sexes are green, but males feature white lips, a thin lateral stripe, and two pointed rostral appendages. Females lack these appendages and instead display a bright red casque and two lateral spots. During mating or gravidity, females shift to vivid lemon yellow with blue eyelids. Neither sex has dorsal or ventral crests.

This species is part of the bifidus group and is distinguishable from similar chameleons like Furcifer timoni by its unique coloration and patterning.