This chameleon is endemic to Madagascar and is widely distributed throughout the island, with the exception of the north, between 120 and 1,925 m above sea level (Raselimanana and Rakotomala 2003, Glaw and Vences 2007, Randrianantoandro et al. 2010). It has an estimated extent of occurrence of 467,634 km².

Furcifer lateralis is native to the island of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, and its range encompasses much of the island (Glaw and Vences, 1994; Bartlett and Bartlett, 1995).

Biogeographic Regions: indian ocean (Native )

Both male and female F. lateralis attain a maximum length of between 17-25 cm. Males are generally green with a white mid-lateral line and a series of dark bands extending from behind the head to the end of the tail. Females are generally heavier-bodied and more colorful (especially when gravid), with with dark bands and white or yellowish lateral ocelli and poorly defined orange mid-lateral stripe on a brownish background. The throat and lips of both sexes are usually striped. These chameleons can change color and intensity depending on mood and certain environmental factors (Glaw and Vences, 1994; Bartlett and Bartlett, 1995).

• Terrestrial

Furcifer lateralis is strictly arboreal, and is particularly fond of small trees and shrubs. They are typically found at an altitude of 600-1200 meters, generally in areas of moderate shade and high humidity, with access to direct sunlight. This species has also infiltrated the cities of Madagascar, doing quite well in people's gardens and shrubs (Glaw and Vences, 1994; Bartlett and Bartlett, 1995).

Terrestrial Biomes: savanna or grassland ; forest ; scrub forest

Furcifer lateralis is almost entirely insectivorous, and prefers insects which normally reside in trees or shrubs. These include most flies, grasshoppers and crickets, and various insect larvae. Adult specimens are also known to consume very small lizards and even small newborn rodents (in captivity). This species hunts for food in the typical chameleon style of slowly creeping through tree or shrub branches, using its excellent eyesight to spot insects. As the desired prey is selected, F. lateralis will get as close to its prey as possible, and sieze it by quickly extending its tongue (which may equal the length of the lizard), capturing the insect on the sticky tip and then quickly retracting its tongue (Bartlett and Bartlett, 1995).

Furcifer lateralis matures in a very short period of time, and are generally able to reproduce by three months of age. Males tend to be very territorial, and usually attempt to attract females into their territory to mate. The females will then deposits the clutches of eggs in a depression that they dig into the soil. typical clutch size ranges from 8 to 23, and up to three clutches can be laid in one year. Incubation requires about six months at a temperature near 24°C (75°F) (Bartlett and Bartlett, 1995; Davidson, 1997).

Currently, F. lateralis is doing quite well in its native habitat, and even seems to be benefitting from some degree of habitat alteration. It has proven to be quite versatile by moving into urban areas and establishing populations there (Bartlett and Bartlett 1995).

US Federal List: no special status

IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: no special status

Furcifer lateralis is a relatively popular species in the American pet trade, with most individuals available today being captive bred.

Chameleons undoubtedly help to control insect populations in areas where they are common.