Class: Reptilia, Order: Squamata, Family: Chamaeleonidae

Genus Chamaeleon - 70 species, Genus Rhampholeon - 16 species, distributed mostly throughout Africa and Madagascar with approximately half found outside the Sahara Desert.

Genus Chamaeleo - 1 species, found in southern Spain, North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, India, and Sri Lanka.

Total length - 20 to 30 cm (with more than half being the tail)

Chameleons are diurnal and mostly arboreal, living in trees. They move slowly but are adept at navigating narrow tree branches using their distinctive four feet.

Their body color can change based on the environment, ambient light, temperature changes, and emotions.

Most chameleon species hatch from eggs. When laying eggs, females descend to the ground, dig a hole, and can lay between 20 to 50 eggs.

Chameleons are said to be challenging to keep as pets. The average lifespan of a typical chameleon is 3 to 7 years, though with proper care, some can live up to 10 years.

However, if the living conditions and diet are not suitable, they can die within a few months.

The price of chameleons varies depending on the species, country of origin, and size. The affordable type is the leaf chameleon.

The palm-sized, adorable leaf chameleon can be purchased for about 2,000 to 5,000 yen. Among those experienced in reptile care, the panther chameleon is popular, costing between 50,000 to 100,000 yen and is more challenging to keep, so beginners should be cautious.

Chameleons can be purchased at reptile specialty stores or pet shops that deal extensively with reptiles.