[1] With a maximum total length (including tail) of 68.5 cm (27 in), F. oustaleti is generally considered the world's largest species of chameleon by this measurement.

Typically, prey is acquired with a long, muscular tongue, while fruit is seized directly with the jaws, but occasional exceptions to this rule have been recorded.

In one unusual case however, this species was recorded grasping fruit bearing twigs with the zygodactyl feet and bringing them closer for consumption.

Amongst reptiles, this level of food manipulation with the forelimbs is otherwise only documented in some species of monitor lizards[11] and Chamaeleo namaquensis.

[1] The generic name, Furcifer, is derived from the Latin root furci- meaning "forked" and refers to the shape of the animal's feet.