Furcifer minor

The lesser chameleon mainly inhabits the arboreal habitat of tapia forest, dominated by the Uapaca bojeri tree, as well as other endemic habitats such as humid montane habitats between the ranges of 1,000 and 1,650 metres above sea level in the region of Madagascar. They have also been known to colonise pastureland as well as coffee and cocoa plantations, and as a result may be more abundant in these locations. The habitat of the species has been fragmented by large swathes of unsuitable savanna grassland.

The lesser chameleon is oviparous, with 4 to 16 eggs laid in a single clutch and in recorded captivity as many as 3 clutches have been known to be laid per year although this number is typically closer to 1 clutch per year. A dissected female contained 12 eggs measuring 12 by 7 mm. The eggs require an incubation time of 8 to 9 months at a constant temperature of 23 degrees Celsius. Sexual maturity is typically reached from between 5 and 8 months. Once the females have completed the courtship and mating process they will display a new coloration scheme and act extremely aggressively towards males. Gestation requires 2 to 3 months and the chameleon may die during its first egg laying experience due to egg binding.