Books published by publisher Collins British Museum ( Natural History )

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.