This is how the Malagasy people describe the Chameleon,with its amazing ability to independently pivot its bulging eyes in two separate directions.

We all know that Chameleons can change their skin colour, but this is more of a reflection of its emotions, rather than its surroundings as is commonly viewed. If it feels threatened, angry or amorous towards a mate it will change colour.

They also have amazing feet that can grasp branches tightly. Tails that further secure them to trees and coil to a perfect shape when they feel cold. Males have horns. Their tongues, as the video below shows, can be as long as their body, and they strangely rock forwards and backwards between each step.

Such strange creatures. You couldn’t conjure them up.

Madagascar has almost half of the world’s 200 chameleons species. They are found all over the island, but many hold critically threatened or near extinction status. Loss of habitat is the main factor, and sadly still an illegal business in the international pet business.

There is no question that these colourful creatures look better clinging to trees, than stuck in a glass tank on a European mantlepiece.

I dedicate these pictures to my brother, Mick, who has a passion for bugs and reptiles.