Identification: A medium sized green and/or brown chameleon where both sexes reach an average 10 inches total length. The males have 3 true annular horns (1 rostral, 2 pre-ocular) that measure on average 18mm and the rostral horn is usually directed upwards. Males also have a noticeable hemipenal bulge. The females’ bear only a single rostral horn and is absent in some populations. Both sexes’ possess large, fused occipital lobes covered with 30 or so small, plate-like scales. This large flap covers the casque and neck like a small cape and is raised in defense giving the animal an outwardly large appearance when threatened. The dorsal crest has a scalloped appearance formed by large, tubular scales set far apart. These scales become reduced towards the tail, ending mid-tail length. Small gular and ventral crests are present. Squamation is heterogeneous with big granular scales interspersed with tubercular scales on the flanks. Smaller scales are found on the limbs and tail. Interstitial skin is red or pink sometimes giving a red appearance to the animal. Some populations have yellow. Ovoviviparous.

Distribution: A Tanzanian endemic found in the Uluguru and Uzungwe mountain ranges. They occupy the forest canopy at elevations of 1400 to 2200m. There are dramatic seasonal changes in the area with precipitation throughout the year. There is a marked rainy season through November to April. Average daytime temperatures vary from 18-20C (64-72F) with nighttime drops to between 8-16C (46-61F).

Captive Care: A somewhat shy chameleon that does well in a medium sized (18”x18”x30”), densely planted screened cage. The males are considerably more active than the females so slightly larger caging (20”x20”x36”) is beneficial for them. Basking spot temperatures should be 80F with an ambient in the low 70’s. Cool to cold room temperatures at night are tolerated. Humidity should be 80% or more. Higher temperatures combined with low humidity are lethal to this species. Almost all types of soft and hard bodied insects are accepted and the females certainly have a healthier appetite than the males and should be monitored for overeating. Specimens should be kept individually as they are fairly aggressive towards conspecifics but sightlines between animals of both sexes are tolerated throughout the year.

Breeding: The werneri breed once annually usually early in the year. A dry summer followed by increasing rainfall and humidity levels throughout the fall and winter cue the specimens to breed in the early spring (January to April). Receptive females get noticeably brighter and actively search out the male. Receptivity usually lasts a few days and pairs can be introduced many times during that period. Males quickly bob their heads when approaching the female. If she does not react negatively, he continues his approaching, with faster bobs and body swaying. Copulation takes place in typical fashion – male mounting his mate from the rear – and lasts about 10-20 minutes. After mating, the females are testy and the male should be removed for a few hours until mating can be attempted again. Once the female is gravid (not receptive), she becomes extremely bad-tempered - hissing and biting at any males. This is quite apparent once receptivity is over and introductions between the pair should cease. Gravid females should be kept singly. Gestation is 5-10 months. Litters range from 5 - 30 young. Babies are small at birth (20-30mm including tail) but grow rapidly. By looking closely, the males can be identified at birth by the three very small horn buds on their heads. Sexual maturity is 6-10 months.

 Contributed by Tracey Cress