Mating colouration is a temporary, vivid change in body colour that certain animals display during the breeding season to attract mates. It is a form of courtship behaviour driven by hormonal changes.
The male agama lizard is a well-known example. Outside the breeding season, the male is typically dull brown or grey. During the mating period, however, the male develops a bright orange-red head and a deep blue body. This dramatic colour change signals reproductive fitness and attracts females while also warning rival males.
The variegated grasshopper displays warning (aposematic) colouration year-round to deter predators; this is not a seasonal mating change. The chameleon changes colour primarily for camouflage, thermoregulation, and social signalling rather than specifically for mating display. The leopard has a permanent spotted coat pattern (rosettes) used for camouflage; it does not change colour during breeding.
When revising courtship behaviour, remember to distinguish mating colouration (temporary, seasonal, for attracting mates) from camouflage, warning colouration, and permanent pigmentation patterns.