The bird was let go in the fall, and became separated from the others.

Between these there was a short struggle over the grass--for the tarantula fought fiercely; but he was no match for his antagonist; who, in a few moments, had ground off his legs with his powerful jaws, and left him a helpless and motionless trunk.

The chameleon now seized his victim by the head, sunk his sharp, conical teeth into its skull, and thus killed it outright.
What appeared singular to all was, that the moment the lizard had first sprung upon his prey his bright colours returned like a flash, and he again appeared with his green back and red throat, if possible more brilliant than ever.
He now commenced dragging the body of the spider over the grass, evidently making for some decayed logs, half covered with vines and briars, that formed a heap near the spot.

Here, no doubt was his retreat.
This time Francois did not attempt to interfere.

He had no desire to do so.