Jackson’s chameleons are omnivores. Most of their die is small animals such as ants, butterflies, caterpillars, slugs, arthropods, snails, small birds, worms, lizards, geckos, amphibians and even smaller chameleons. On occasion they have also been known to eat leaves and berries from some trees.

Their water comes from drinking rain droplets off of leaves. When hunting they will lay in wait scanning with their eyes for potential prey. When it is detected both eyes lock on it, determine how far away it is and then catch it using their sticky tongue.

They make their home in woodland and forests. They will on occasion wander into woodlands nestled amongst suburbs. Coffee plantations have also been noted as a place where they will live.

Jackson’s chameleons are able to mate year round. Males who win mating rights seek out a female. When one is found they move their eyes quickly, change colours and sway gentle to woo her.

In the event she rejects, which is shown through mouth gaping and hissing, he deflates and moves on. If she accepts she will turn brown. He will mate with her and after 15 minutes he will either leave or she will change colour and make him go.