Chameleons are super cool and are the famous reptile that changes color with its background.  Wired magazine apparently feels that there is a big misconception regarding this cool animal:

Chameleons are famous for their quick color-changing abilities. It’s a common misconception that they do this to camouflage themselves against a background. In fact, chameleons mostly change color to regulate their temperatures or to signal their intentions to other chameleons.

Since chameleons can’t generate their own body heat, changing the color of their skin is a way to maintain a favorable body temperature. A cold chameleon may become dark to absorb more heat, whereas a hotter chameleon may turn pale to reflect the sun’s heat.

Who knew?  Let’s see one of these awesome animals in action on the next page

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