Why do chameleons change colour?

Chameleons change colour primarily for camouflage, temperature regulation, and communication. The colour change occurs through the manipulation of special pigment cells in their skin called chromatophores. For camouflage, they blend into their surroundings to avoid predators, while bright colours may signal mating readiness or territorial aggression. Chameleons also adjust their colour to regulate body temperature, becoming darker to absorb more heat or lighter to reflect it. This remarkable ability makes them one of the most adaptive creatures in their environment.