Biology of the Chameleon three toes on one side, and two toes on the other. They also will often have strong and sharp nails that can dig into what they are holding on to. This unique arrangement allows them to fully wrap their feet around the branches or twigs they are walking on, giving them an amazingly strong grip. It is often very difficult to extract a chameleon from its perching post if it does not want to leave it. Tail - A chameleon's prehensile tail serves multiple functions. For one, it allows them to wrap their tail around branches and can act as a crutch to keep them held up. This can also be used to reach out and grab branches if they fall from a tree, such as when attempting to escap from a predator. Their long powerful tail also aids them in balance when they are moving swiftly through a tree or on the ground. Male chameleons will often use their tails in displays to females or rival males. They will often sway their bodies and elegantly roll and unroll their tail in such a display. This helps them fend rivals away from their territory, and displays to females that they are interested in mating.