Changable lizard, Thailand

Changable lizard
Calotes versicolour
Family : Agamidae


This widespread Asian native can easily be found in parks and gardens, where it feeds on insects and other prey. Its colour ranges from brownish-buff to greyish, and in the breeding season the throat of the male becomes red and black, as in the photo at left. The species is identified by the short crest above the neck, the presence of small spines above the tympanum and by the lack of a shoulder fold. The male has swollen cheeks.

Commonly found amongst low shrubs and bushes, it will also scamper up tree trunks to avoid being detected. Like many agamids it lays its eggs in a hole in the ground.

The species ranges from Iran to India, and from southern China down to Thailand. Recently introduced to Singapore, it appears to have out-competed the native Green Crested Lizard, Bronchocela cristatella, which now has a restricted range.