Furcifer bifidus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Furcifer bifidus |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Taxidermied Furcifer bifidus (synonym: Chameleo bifidus). | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Furcifer
|
| Species: |
bifidus
|
 |
|
| Synonyms | |
|
|
The Furcifer bifidus is a special kind of chameleon. It lives only in Madagascar, an island country off the coast of Africa. A scientist named Alexandre Brongniart first described this chameleon in the year 1800.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) says this chameleon is a species of "Least Concern." This means it is not currently in danger of disappearing.
Where the Chameleon Lives
The Furcifer bifidus chameleon lives in the eastern part of Madagascar. It can be found in a large area, about 35,368 square kilometers (13,656 square miles). This area is bigger than some small countries!
Its Home in Madagascar
You can find this chameleon north of the Mangoro River. It lives as far north as Daraina and the Marojejy National Park. These chameleons can live at high places, up to 700 meters (2,297 feet) above sea level.
Threats to its Home
Even though it is a "Least Concern" species, the Furcifer bifidus faces some dangers. One big threat is logging, which means cutting down trees for wood. Another problem is something called "slash-and-burn" farming. This is when people cut down and burn forests to clear land for farms.
These actions destroy the chameleon's natural home. Luckily, the Furcifer bifidus is a protected species. This means there are rules to help keep it safe.
Images for kids
-
A preserved Furcifer bifidus chameleon.
-
Map showing where the Furcifer bifidus chameleon lives in Madagascar.
