Colloquial (Common) Names: Transvaal Dwarf Chameleon, Wolkberg Dwarf Chameleon (English); Transvaalse Dwerg-verkleurmannetjie (Afrikaans); ilovane (isiXhosa); umwabu (isiZulu).
Taxonomy: Class: Reptilia; Order: Squamata; Suborder: Sauria (Lacertilia); Infraorder: Iguania; Family: Chameleonidae.
Identification: A fairly large dwarf chameleon with much colour and pattern variation. Brown to black, often with a broad pale stripe along its flanks. A casque (raised protrusion behind the head) is often well developed.
Size: 140-160mm total length.
Distribution: Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces, as well as Swaziland Highveld.
Habitat: Grassland and Forest Biomes where they inhabit Afro-montane forest, riverine thickets and grasslands.
Activity & Behaviour: Diurnal; arboreal.
Diet & Feeding: Various invertebrates, mostly insects.
Reproduction: Live-birth; females produce between 7-17 young in spring.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
References and Recommended Further Reading:
- Bates, M., W. Branch, A. Bauer, M. Burger, J. Marais, G. Alexander, & M. De Villiers (eds). 2014. Atlas and Red List of the Reptiles of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Suricata 1. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
- Tolley, K. & M. Burger. 2007. Chameleons of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers.
