Tropical forests, in overhanging trees along the banks of rivers. Up to 25 years. Overhunted in some parts of its range. Used as a food source. The flap of skin hanging below the neck is called the dewlap.
Males often extend the dewlap to look more threatening or to attract a mate.
Good peripheral vision. An agile climber, using sharp claws for gripping, it can scramble from tree to tree provided the twigs are interlaced to give support. Can throw itself 40 to 50 feet and land on the ground unhurt. Can swim propelling itself with its tail and dive underwater. Both sexes have a crest which resembles the teeth of a comb running down the back, but the male's crest is longer.