CHAMELEONS. 



527 



for the very small pupil. There is no external ear. The tongue is 

 extensible to the length of half the total length of the animal, that is, 

 from five to seven inches. The lungs are large, and connect with air- 

 cells underlying the skin. The neck is so short as to prevent the head 

 beinsr turned from side to side. Though the chameleon is arboreal in 



Chameleon Tongue of Chameleon. 



its habits, it is very slow in its movements. It is unprovided with 

 any weapons of defense against its enemies. The female lays about 

 thirty eggs, which are deposited in a hollow in the ground, and cov- 

 ered with loose earth. 



The immobility of the chameleon distinguishes it markedly from 

 the rest of the lizard tribe, which are generally active and quick in 



