Page 22 - Amazing Creations Volume Two

Amazing Creations 45

Richard Gunther

A chameleon could simply run fast along a branch
and snap its mouth at insects, but insects are
usually much faster than lizards, so it would go hungry.

What the chameleon actually does, is creep along
a branch, swaying like a leaf, and altering the
colours in its skin.

As it comes nearer to its prey it swivels its
independent, turreted eyes to look at it with
BOTH eyes. This is crucial..

Once located, the eyes swivel and lock
on the target. Now the chameleonhas
Out goes the tongue. 3D vision, which it uses to guage the
distance of the prey exactly.

This alone is a marvel.

The tongue is an example In less than
of amazing hydraulics in action. a second, this
A small bone flicks the tongue so lizard catches
it does not strike the lizard's jaws. a very fast and
d ifficu It-to-catch
The pressure is released and the meal!
hydraulic surge inflates forwards.

Striking the target a special sticky
end attaches to the insect and the
tongue snaps back.
How does the chameleon know it can catch
food with its tongue?

How does the chameleon know how to use its
eyes to get a depth reading so it can accurately
fire its tongue the right distance?

God gave it the skills and the wisdom.