Jackson’s Chameleon
REPORT IF SEEN: This species is currently controlled by KISC, if you see it please report it.
Jackson’s Chameleon
Species: Miconia calvescens
Family: Melastomataceae
KISC is actively controlling this species. Sightings of this pest should be reported immediately. If you suspect that you have any of our targets on your property, KISC will survey and if confirmed, will remove it for free.
It is illegal to transport these animals between islands or to commercially export to the mainland. Penalties can include a fine of up to $200,000 and a possible prison sentence. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture has an amnesty program allowing a person to turn in an illegal animal without prosecution.
Description
- Bright emerald green chameleon fading to a yellowish color on their undersides
- Males grow 10-12in long with a long, curled, prehensile tail accounting for half of their length.
- Males have three horns protruding from their forehead
- Females are shorter than males and never grow horns
- They move with a distinctive slow rocking motion
- Native to Kenya and Tanzania. Introduced to Hawaii as escaped pets that established into feral populations on Oahu.
Impacts
- Threat to Kauai’s native birds, native insects, native spiders, and native snails
- Chameleons are a potential prey base for brown tree snakes and other snakes
- Primarily moved around in Hawaii by humans
On Kauai
Jackson’s chameleons are not known to be on Kauai. However, KISC assisted HDOA in the capture of one Jackson’s Chameleon in 2013 in Lihue, assumed to be an escaped pet.
