Chameleons

About this book

With flattened bodies, opposed feet, independently swivelling eyes, a prehensile tail, and the ability to change colour to match their background, chameleons are both fascinating and charismatic. Chameleons is the first popular guide to this extraordinary animal group.

This fully illustrated book begins by exploring chameleon evolution and classification, describing how they fit into life's evolutionary tree and revealing their close relations. It discusses the variations in size, shape, colour and markings among the 173 species and explains why chameleons look like they do.

There follows chapters on reproduction and development, food and feeding, habitat and distribution as well as how chameleons defend themselves against predators. The final chapter examines the relationship between chameleons and humans, from their occurrence in mythology and superstition to worldwide conservation work and keeping chameleons as pets. Drawing on their vast experience, the authors provide an illuminating insight into the lives of these unusual animals, their natural habitats and their care and breeding in captivity.

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Biography

Chris Mattison is a natural history writer and photographer who specialises in reptiles and amphibians. He has written and illustrated over 20 books, mostly on the natural history of reptiles and amphibians and their responsible care and breeding in captivity. His photography regularly appears in books and magazines throughout the world, and he has been a runner-up in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. He is a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society.

Nick Garbutt is an award-winning wildlife photographer, author, lecturer and illustrator. He has written numerous natural history books including the acclaimed Mammals of Madagascar: A Complete Guide. He regularly contributes articles and photographs to a wide range of magazines, such as National Geographic and BBC Wildlife, and has had several winning and commended images in Wildlife Photographer of the Year.