How do chameleons catch insects with their tongues?

Chameleons are a specialized group of lizards that utilize a unique, high-speed tongue-projection system to capture prey from a distance.1

Unlike many other lizards that can only expel their tongues a short distance, a chameleon can launch its tongue at great speed to a distance exceeding twice its body length with remarkable accuracy. This process relies on the following mechanics:1

• Projection: The movement is powered by the hydrostatic force generated from the rapid contraction of a ringed accelerator muscle.1
• Capture: The tip of the tongue is sticky, allowing it to adhere firmly to the victim's body upon contact.1
• Retraction: Once the prey is secured, strong retractor muscles pull the tongue and the captured insect back into the chameleon's mouth.1

This specialized system, combined with the chameleon's ability to focus its eyes rapidly like a telephoto lens, allows them to hunt insects and even small birds effectively.1