Description

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A comprehensive introduction to their biology, natural history and classification.

With flattened bodies, opposed feet, independently swiveling eyes, a prehensile tail, and the ability to change color to match their environment, chameleons are both fascinating and charismatic. Chameleons is the first popular authoritative 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.

Covering all of the 192 species of chameleon, the book reveals:

• Species variation in size, shape, color and markings
• Why chameleons look like they do
• Reproduction and development
• Food and feeding
• Habitat and distribution
• Defense against predators
• Chameleons and humans, mythology, superstition
• Worldwide conservation efforts
• Keeping chameleons as pets, care and breeding in captivity.

Drawing on their vast experience, the authors provide an illuminating insight into the lives of these unusual animals. As the first authoritative guide to chameleons written for the lay reader, this will be a popular choice for dedicated owners of pet chameleons.

About the Author

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Chris Mattison is a natural history writer and photographer whose specialty is reptiles and amphibians. He has written and illustrated more than 20 books and his photography appears regularly in book and magazines throughout the world. He has been a runner-up in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition and is a Fellow of the Royal Horticultural Society. He lives in Sheffield, UK. Nick Garbutt is an award-winning wildlife photographer, author and lecturer. He has written numerous natural history books and regular contributes articles and photographs to a wide range of magazines, including National Geographic. He has had several winning and commended images in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. He lives in Cumbria, UK.