Have you ever wondered what chameleons are? Chameleons are distinct reptiles. They are lizards that live in different climates and locations. These species come in different colors and many of them have the ability to change their color. They have rapidly extrudable tongues and adapted for climbing and visual hunting.

When you have a chameleon as a pet, there are things you must consider since they are unique species. They are interesting pets but may not be for everyone. Their care requirements are quite specific and they easily become stressed. They will require a fair amount of upkeep and cage space. You also need to consider the cost of its habitat, humidity control, lighting, heating and of course food.

In choosing the kind of chameleon to pet, you have to consider where you are living. Maintaining a habitat for a chameleon that requires high humidity will take some work if you live in a hot dry climate. Those requiring moderate humidity may not alternatively be the best choice if you live in a very humid climate.

Chameleons are solitary species. They do best when they live alone. They are also territorial.

 

Chameleon cages

Chameleons exclusively live in trees, they are arboreal. So for their cages, they need an ample foliage for climbing and privacy, it must be quite large. Good ventilation is also required, and a cage screened on three sides is best with poly mesh or vinyl coated wire to prevent their toes from injury when becoming caught. For climbing, lots of branches in different diameters are needed. Be sure that what you put inside the cage are not toxic because there is a chance that the chameleon may eat it. Avoiding ficus plants is also recommended by chameleon enthusiasts.

Take note of this: chameleons don’t take water from a dish, they get their water from droplets on leaves. You can use drip systems placed on top of the cage or use ice cubes that will drip from on top of the cage. If you use a drip system, keep it in one place so the chameleon will know where to find water.

 

Feeding chameleons

Chameleons feed on insects, a variety of them. You could give your chameleon roaches, crickets, super worms, wax worms, wax moths, and mealworms. Prior to feeding, prey food should be gut loaded with nutritious food such as green leafy vegetables and fruits and should contain calcium especially for the egg laying females. Also provide vitamin D supplement. Supplementing them with vitamin A should not be overdone because they are very susceptible to vitamin A overdosing. You can minimally feed them with nutritious leafy greens but avoid lettuce, cabbage and spinach.

Caring for a chameleon may be quite scrupulous, but if you are properly prepared to care for a chameleon and set up an ideal habitat for your pet, it could be wonderful. Chameleons are great pets. They are fascinating lizards that are amazing to watch and observe.

When you have your own chameleon pet, enjoy the process of taking care of it and you’ll see what joy it could bring to you.

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