Species profile
About this species
The horned leaf chameleon is a small, cryptic reptile native to the coastal forests of Tanzania & Kenya. It typically reaches only 6-8 cm in length & is renowned for its remarkably leaf-like appearance, complete with textured skin & a short tail. The species possesses small rostral projections giving it its common name, & it relies heavily on camouflage rather than colour change for defence.
Lowland coastal forests & forest edges of Tanzania & Kenya, typically found on low branches, leaf litter & dense undergrowth in humid montane & coastal forest zones.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Horned leaf chameleon with us in Madagascar.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning or late afternoon during the dry season (June-October) when the species is most active & visible on low vegetation in coastal forest habitats.
Use a macro lens to capture fine skin texture & the intricate rostral horns up close. Move slowly & deliberately to avoid startling the animal, as it will freeze or drop to the forest floor when threatened. Diffused off-camera flash or a ring flash works well to illuminate detail without harsh shadows in the low-light forest understorey.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Horned leaf chameleon
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.