Chamellama

Discovery LocationThe high-altitude deserts of the Atacama.

Lead ResearcherDr. Kenji Tanaka

Field Report Summary

A master of disguise in the cloud forest, the Chamellama can change the color of its wool to match the lichen-covered rocks. Its eyes move independently, allowing it to watch for predators and tasty leaves simultaneously. It moves with an agonizingly slow, rocking gait to mimic swaying branches.

Physical Description

Llama body covered in color-changing wool, with a chameleon tail and eyes.

Habitat

Cloud Forest

Dietary Behavior

Consumes tough desert shrubs and occasional insects.

Evolutionary Origin

An adaptation to extreme desert conditions, with chameleon camouflage genes incorporated into the robust physiology of a llama-like ancestor.

Behavioral Notes

Spits a foul-tasting liquid when threatened, similar to both chameleons and llamas.