When we think about animals that change colour, the first species that comes to mind will likely be the chameleon – the unequivocal master of camouflage. But the chameleon is just the beginning.
Whether it's for communication or survival, there are many animals that can change colour. For some, it's instant, while for others it may take place seasonally.
Even humans can change colour... think of those summer tans! Find out more about why animals can change colour and the fascinating species that can transform their looks.
In other interesting tales of animals of different colours, there are also lots of transparent animals, rainbow animals, blue animals, and animals with leucism and albinism.
What animals can change colour?
Chameleon
The chameleon is the ultimate camouflaged species, transforming colour over seconds or minutes into the most vivid array of colours. These shifts are used to reflect mood, environmental changes and communication.
Arctic fox
The Arctic fox might not be able to change colour instantly, but it undergoes a seasonal coat change, transforming from brown and grey in summer to white in winter. This helps it camouflage in snowy conditions. This Arctic animal moults and grows a new coat when the temperature shifts with the seasons.
Shore crab
The shore crab (also known as the European green crab) can change colour over several days or weeks to match its surroundings.
Peacock flounder
The peacock flounder can change colour very quickly, instantly blending in with complex backgrounds. It can switch between muted sandy tones and bright, spotted blue patterns. This is achieved using chromatophores, which control pigment distribution in its skin.
Cuttlefish
Cuttlefish are masters of camouflage and can shift colours – and patterns – in milliseconds. Like many others on this list, this cephalopod can change their colour, pattern and texture. This is predominantly thanks to the chromatophores (colour-producing cells) in their bodies.
- "We were amazed to observe a cuttlefish waving back" – video experiment stuns scientists
- Watch incredible footage of a tiny flamboyant cuttlefish hatching from its egg
Rock ptarmigan
The striking Lagopus muta changes its colour seasonally, with plumage transforming three times a year to match its environment. In summer, it is mottled brown or grey to blend into rocks; in autumn, it transitions into a mix of brown and white; and by winter, it is fully covered in pure white plumage to match the snow. Even the feathers on its legs and feet adapt to the season.
Stoat
Similar to the Arctic fox, the stoat changes its coat with the seasons for effective camouflage. It is brown in summer and bright white in winter – with a distinctive black tail tip.
Goldenrod crab spider
The goldenrod crab spider changes colour between white and yellow to match the flowers it hunts on, making it easier to ambush prey. It’s not an instant transformation though – the colour change takes place over several days.
Mimic octopus
Many species of octopus are camouflage masters and can rapidly change colour. The mimic octopus, for example, can imitate the appearance – and texture – of rocks or coral. It doesn’t just change its colour; it can also contract specific muscles to alter its shape and surface texture, helping it blend in seamlessly with its surroundings.
- Octopuses are now punching fish in the face. This video shows exactly why
- This deadly female octopus plans to eat her partner after sex. But the male has a defensive trick in his tentacles