The Beauty of Juvenile Carpet Chameleons

Juvenile Carpet Chameleons, Furcifer lateralis, are renowned for their stunning array of colors, a characteristic that is aptly reflected in their name. These remarkable reptiles exhibit a wide palette of hues, often described as a 'carpet' of colors.

At birth, juvenile chameleons display cryptic coloration, predominantly featuring shades of brown, black, and white, along with intricate patterns that help them blend into their surroundings. As they mature, they begin to develop the spectacular patterns of their parents, gradually resembling them more closely. This transformation demonstrates the beauty and complexity of their coloration as they grow, highlighting the vibrant patterns characteristic of their species.

Pictures Petr Necas: above 7 weeks old juveniles, below male (left) and female (right) of Furcifer lateralis