The animal with the shortest lifespan among quadrupeds resides solely on one island (photo).

Chameleons of the species Furcifer labordi inhabit only the western part of Madagascar and possess the shortest lifespan among four-legged animals. They hatch, grow, mate, and die within just 4-5 months. This rapid life cycle allows chameleons to cope with the extreme environmental conditions, according to Live Science.

Furcifer labordi chameleons actually spend more time as embryos in their eggs than as adults. Before hatching, these chameleons remain in their eggs for approximately 8-9 months, nestled under forest litter. As the record holders for the shortest lifespan among four-legged creatures, they reach a length of 9 cm and are found exclusively in the forests of western Madagascar.

Once the chameleons emerge from their eggs, they grow quickly and reach sexual maturity at the age of 2 months. Their aggressive mating season begins in January, during the rainy season, when males compete for the opportunity to breed and soon after die.

Subsequently, females direct all their energy towards producing eggs, which they lay in February. Each female can lay up to 11 eggs. A few hours after laying their eggs, the females die. This means that for two-thirds of the year, the entire species exists as eggs buried underground.

Scientists believe that the short lifespan of these chameleons is an adaptation for survival in the harsh seasonal conditions of western Madagascar. The region experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, with the rainy season providing essential resources for survival, such as food and water, while the dry season sees a reduction in these resources. Although many tropical regions have wet and dry seasons, Madagascar's environmental conditions fluctuate more dramatically.

To adapt to these circumstances, chameleons have evolved to spend most of the year as embryos in their eggs. They emerge during the brief rainy season to mate and lay more eggs.

This survival strategy increases the chances of chameleons finding food and mates in a short timeframe. Additionally, it reduces competition for resources since most adults die before the next generation emerges.

As is well-known, chameleons can change their color, and Furcifer labordi is no exception. Their skin changes color by expanding and contracting special cells that contain nanocrystals, altering how they reflect light. Color change occurs not only for camouflage but also for communication with other chameleons and to attract mates.