The ability of Transposable elements (TEs) to replicate across genomes makes them major generators of large effect mutations. Chromatin-based mechanisms control the mutational potential of TEs in multiple ways, notably by the epigenetic silencing of TE sequences, alleviating the impact of new insertions, and modulating the integration space. Most TE insertions are highly deleterious at the species level, yet some can provide key adaptive variation. Together with their remarkable sensitivity to the environment and precise integration preferences, these unique characteristics place TEs as potent genomic engines of adaptive innovation. Herein, we review recent works exploring the regulation and impact of transposition in nature and discuss their implications for the rapid adaptation of species to drastic environmental changes.