Chameleons make great reptiles to keep and they can be fascinating to watch and observe. They can be a little more difficult to own, so keeping chameleons may be better suited to a more experienced reptile keeper, who has a broad understanding of reptile ownership.
Let’s have a look at general chameleon husbandry, as well as common health problems and important factors to keep in mind if you’re considering adding one of these fascinating reptiles to your home.
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Which chameleons make the best pets?
There are a few different species of chameleons that make good pets and they are readily available from exotic pet stores or private breeders. As with any pet, before you decide to take ownership of a chameleon, it’s important to do as much research as possible to ensure that you know what you’re taking on.
Keep in mind that chameleons are better observed than handled. If you are looking for a pet that is interactive, chameleons may not be the best option for you. Let’s take a look at some of the most common chameleon species that are often kept as pets.
Veiled Chameleon
Also known as a Yemen Chameleon, the Veiled Chameleon offers a great introduction into chameleon ownership. They are a relatively large species, with males reaching between 45 – 60cm in length and females ranging between 25 – 35cm.
The life expectancy also differs depending on the gender of the chameleon, with the male often living between 6 – 8 years and 3 – 5 years in females. It is often easy to differentiate male and female veiled chameleons by looking at the size of the casque or ‘helmet’ on the top of their heads. Males will have a larger casque than females.
If you’re wanting a chameleon that you can handle often, veiled chameleons may not be the best option. They are often territorial, defensive and can sometimes show signs of aggression. It may be easier to own a chameleon from a younger age so that they can become desensitised to handling.
On the whole, the colours of a veiled chameleon are not as extravagant as some of the other species. Veiled chameleons usually maintain a green colour, but can sometimes change to a brown or blackish colour.
Jackson’s Chameleon
The Jackson’s Chameleon, also known as the Three Horned Chameleon is a common pet reptile. They range in size between 22 cm and 33 cm in length from head to tail and the males have a life expectancy of 5 – 10 years. This is often shorter for females, who often have a life expectancy of 4 – 5 years.
Similar to the Veiled Chameleon, Jackson’s do not have a large range of colours and predominantly remain green. As a general rule, Jackson’s are not tolerable of handling, but may be more handleable if they are desensitised from a young age.
Panther Chameleon
When you picture a chameleon in your mind, chances are you’re thinking of a Panther chameleon. They are bright and colourful and are native to Madagascar. Males can grow up to 20 cm in length, whilst females reach up to 17 cm in size.
Healthy Panther Chameleons can live between 3 – 7 years, but in general, males live longer than females. They are carnivores and eat predominantly insects in captivity.
Panther Chameleons can be a little more tolerant than Veiled Chameleons for handling, but are still more of a watch and observe pet. Thanks to the bright colours of the Panther Chameleon, they make the perfect pet to watch and appreciate.
How do you house chameleons?
Vivarium style
There are a number of different enclosures that you can use for chameleons, all with their different perks. Some of the most common vivariums include glass, wooden and mesh. In general, glass and mesh vivariums are the most suitable as they allow for both air-flow and humidity to accumulate in the enclosure. Wooden vivariums should ideally be avoided as they can easily rot.
A substrate that holds adequate moisture should be used which usually consists of sphagnum moss, bark, soil and sand. Many exotic pet stores will sell a premade mix. The best way to keep any reptile is to provide them with a bioactive enclosure. This is where the enclosure is a self contained ecosystem which requires minimal maintenance. The substrate contains microfauna, such as springtails and isopods, which help to clean faeces and mould.
Live plants help to provide climbing support as well as releasing oxygen and humidity into the environment. Enclosures should provide more height than width, as chameleons are an arboreal species. This means that they spend the majority of their time high in the canopy. Plenty of climbing opportunities should be provided as well as hiding places for shelter.
No matter what enclosure is provided, it is important that they are safe and secure to minimise any escapees.
Temperature and Humidity
Enclosures that consist of both glass and mesh elements allow the internal environment to be controlled a lot easier. The environment’s temperature should be monitored with the use of a thermometer that is also paired with a thermostat. A hygrometer can be used to monitor the humidity levels. Depending on the species of the chameleon, the required temperature can change. On average, a basking area of 28 – 35 degrees celsius is optimal, with a humidity level that ranges between 50% – 80%.
Optimal humidity can be achieved by spraying the enclosure twice daily, or by installing an automatic misting system. This sprays the environment at set times throughout the day with water.
It is important that a UV bulb is also provided so that ultraviolet light can help reptiles to generate Vitamin D3. This is usually provided by the sun and helps the animal to absorb calcium from their diet. Without UV in captivity, many reptiles can fall ill with serious health conditions.
What is a chameleon’s diet?
Chameleons are carnivores and in the wild will eat a variety of food from insects to small birds and mammals. In captivity, chameleons are offered insects which include crickets, locusts and mealworms. Their diet should be supplemented with an additional coating of calcium powder to further supplement their nutrients.
Other insects which are good to offer include:
- Cockroaches
- Silkworms
- Stick insects
- Mantids
- Flies
Are chameleons easy to lose?
On the whole, chameleons are slow in movement and will not be easily lost due to quickly making an escape. The main problem with chameleons is that they can blend into their environment very well. Even chameleons that stay green in colour are easy to lose in their enclosure amongst plants.
In the summer, chameleons can benefit from basking outdoors in the natural sunlight. However, they should be placed in a secure mesh enclosure to allow for plenty of air-flow so the enclosure does not become overheated. A portion of the enclosure should also be placed in the shade so that they can regulate their own body temperature.
Never let your chameleon explore the garden without supervision and security. Otherwise, it is unlikely that you will see your chameleon again!
Common health concerns in chameleons
Before deciding to own a chameleon, it is worth checking where your local exotic practice is located. You can use the VetFinder tool to find your local practice.
Chameleons can be prone to a number of different health conditions. Some can occur naturally whilst others can be due to poor husbandry. Some common conditions include:
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD):
This is caused by a lack of vitamins both within the diet or the environment, such as not providing a UV light. Symptoms include bending bones and a soft, pliable jaw.
Mouth Rot:
This is a bacterial infection that causes the mouth to become swollen and discoloured.
Stuck tongue:
In some cases, a chameleon can get their tongue stuck out. This can occur if they miss a prey item, or if they are suffering from MBD, dehydration or infection.
If you are worried about your chameleon, it is best to seek advice from a veterinary surgeon as soon as possible.
Do chameleons make good pets?
Chameleons really do make fantastic pets that can be fascinating to watch. They also make a brilliant focal point in a room, especially if you have a species with vibrant colours. It is important to fully understand what care chameleons need, as well as the commitment that comes with caring for a reptile.
Chameleons can be captivating and unique pets, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of reptile keeping. However, they require specialised care and are best suited for experienced reptile keepers.
If you’re willing to invest the time and effort into creating the right environment and understand that these creatures are more for observation than interaction, a chameleon can be a rewarding addition to your family. Just be prepared for the commitment that comes with ensuring their well-being and the potential challenges of their care.
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