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chameleons Uganda is one of Uganda’s notable reptile or amphibian species, encountered in specific habitats across the country’s diverse ecosystems. African chameleon Uganda covers multiple chameleon species found in the country’s forests and gardens, the colour-changing ability and independently mobile eyes making any chameleon encounter one of the most extraordinary in wildlife. Uganda has a good variety of chameleons, especially in the Albertine Rift forests of the west and south-west, including Bwindi, Kibale and the Rwenzoris. Species visitors may see include Johnston’s three-horned chameleon, the rudis or Ruwenzori side-striped chameleon, Elliot’s chameleon in highland grass and gardens, the flap-necked chameleon in savanna, and tiny pygmy leaf chameleons on the forest floor. They are easiest to find on guided night walks, when they sleep on the tips of twigs and look pale in torchlight, or by asking your guide to spot them along forest trails and lodge gardens.
African Chameleon Uganda: Colour-Changing Forest Reptile Guide
What makes chameleons special
Chameleons have eyes that move independently, letting them look in two directions at once, then focus both on prey before shooting out a sticky tongue that can be longer than their body. Their toes are fused into opposing groups that grip twigs like tongs, and most have a gripping tail. Colour change is mainly used for communication, mood and temperature control rather than camouflage alone; males often brighten during displays or when meeting rivals.
Species to look for
Johnston’s three-horned chameleon is an Albertine Rift species; males have three forward-pointing horns, and it lives in montane forest including Bwindi and the Rwenzoris. The rudis chameleon occurs in highland vegetation in the south-west. Elliot’s chameleon, small and often green or brown with a pale side stripe, is common in grass, hedges and gardens in the highlands, including around Kabale and Lake Bunyonyi.
The flap-necked chameleon, one of Africa’s most widespread species, lives in savanna and woodland. Pygmy leaf chameleons, only a few centimetres long and brown like dead leaves, live low in forest undergrowth.
Where and how to see them
Guided night walks, offered in Kibale and near some Bwindi lodges, are the best chance, as sleeping chameleons show up pale against dark leaves. By day, ask guides on forest walks in Bwindi, Kibale or Mgahinga to look for them, and check lodge gardens and hedges in the highlands. Handle them only if a guide shows you how, never disturb them for photos, and never buy chameleons, as the pet trade threatens several species. See our guides to Bwindi after dark, Kibale Forest, Mgahinga and night drives.
Chameleons and local beliefs
In parts of Uganda, as in much of East Africa, chameleons are surrounded by superstition and some people avoid touching them. Respect local feelings, and let your guide explain the beliefs in the area you are visiting.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, several species, especially in the forests and highlands of the west and south-west.
On night walks in Kibale and around Bwindi, and in gardens and hedges in the highlands.
No. Jackson’s chameleon is native to Kenya and Tanzania; Uganda has related horned species such as Johnston’s chameleon.
Mainly to communicate and regulate temperature, as well as for camouflage.
