Calotes jerdoni, commonly known as the Indo-Chinese forest lizard or Jerdon's forest lizard, is a species of lizard in the family Agamidae. The species is endemic to China and South Asia.
The specific name, jerdoni, is in honor of British biologist Thomas C. Jerdon.[1] Common names include green forest lizard, green garden lizard, Indochinese forest lizard and Jerdon's forest lizard.
Physical structure: A compressed-bodied lizard. This species resembles Calotes maria in pholidotic (scale) and other characters except that it has 45-57 scales round the body; gular scales much larger than the ventral scales; there is an oblique curved fold covered with small granular scales in front of the shoulders; nuchal crest less prominent; the hind-limb reaches to the eye or not quite so far.[2] Dorsal and lateral scales directed upward.
Color pattern: Deep-green dorsal coloration with yellow, orange or brown spots, but in many cases can make the body into a dark brown within a few seconds.
Length: Maximum total length (including tail): 38.5cm (15.2inches).[2] Common total length: 32cm (13inches). Common snout-to-vent length (SVL) : 9cm (04inches).
Bangladesh, Bhutan, China (W Yunnan, Xizang = Tibet), India (Khasi Hills in Assam & Shillong) and Myanmar.
Terrestrial & arboreal; diurnal;[2] found in many types of forested land. Prefers dense and bushy hill forest.[3] A skillful and an adept climber, it moves over trees and bushes rather swiftly. It is active during the day time.[3]
Non-venomous and completely harmless to humans.