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How to keep chameleons in a species-appropriate way

Keeping a chameleon in a species-appropriate way
This Yemen chameleon is displaying all of its colors. However, if you want to keep a reptile like this at home, you should know that they are very sensitive Photo: Getty Images
Sonja Jordans

June 30, 2024, 3:00 pm | Read time: 6 minutes

Chameleons can move their eyes independently of each other, possess a nimble, flicking tongue, and change their color depending on the situation. This makes these sophisticated and exotic animals a popular choice for a pet. But are they suitable for novice owners? And what does a chameleon need to be kept in a way that is appropriate for their species?

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Biologically, chameleons are part of an iguana-like family. This category of scaled reptiles is divided into two subfamilies: true chameleons and stump-tailed chameleons. Not all of them are suitable as pets. PETBOOK explains what you need to look out for while keeping chameleons in a way that is species-appropriately.

Overview

Which chameleons are suitable as pets?

More than 200 different chameleon species are known worldwide, all of which are endangered. Only a few are suitable for terrariums, including the:

  • Yemen chameleon
  • Carpet chameleon
  • Panther chameleon
  • Warty chameleon
  • Three-horned chameleon

How do you keep a chameleon in the most species-appropriate way?

Chameleons are solitary animals, so they should be kept alone. They are fed living food such as crickets and locusts.

Note: Each chameleon species has unique requirements with regard to environment, temperature, humidity, and lighting. This makes keeping them rather complex. “Therefore, they are unsuitable for children,” says Jan-Benedict Glaw from the Chameleon Working Group of the German Society for Herpetology and Terrarium Science.

In order not to make any mistakes when keeping these sensitive animals, it is important to first determine which species of chameleon you want. “Only then can the terrarium, lighting, heat lamp, substrate, and technology for air humidification and measurement be selected to suit the chameleon,” says Glaw to PETBOOK. It is best not only to consult the relevant literature, but also to obtain information from chameleon experts, reptile-experienced vets, and clubs dedicated to keeping chameleons. The Chameleon Working Group of the German Society for Herpetology and Terrarium Science, for example, is one such contact. They also publish their own magazine.

What to look out for when deciding on a terrarium for a chameleon

More than a standard terrarium is required to keep chameleons species-appropriately. “Most standard terrariums are not sufficient,” says chameleon expert Jan-Benedict Glaw. Because of this, many keepers build their own terrarium or have one made for them. The reason is that it’s not just the size, temperature, humidity, and lighting that need to be precisely tailored to the respective species. “Chameleons also don’t like stagnant air,” says Glaw. That is why their terrariums are fitted with gauze or fine, sieve-like metal grids in some places. “These fittings ensure that there is always air flow.”

In general, the technical requirements for keeping chameleons are a real challenge. Some chameleons live in regions where it is very warm during the day but much cooler at night. Others prefer a constant, but not too high, temperature. “This must also be replicated in the terrarium.” Otherwise, chameleons can die from being at the wrong temperature.

Still others need a regular, gentle shower with water. “For this purpose, it’s best to install a misting system,” says Glaw. Special UV lamps are also important so the chameleon can regulate their vitamin D levels. “Without proper UV lighting, chameleons are at risk of developing rickets.” The size and height of the terrarium depend on the expected size of the adult chameleon and whether they are a tree or ground dweller.

Chamäleon auf einem Ast
Chameleons are solitary animals and should ideally not have eye contact with other chameleons

Can chameleons be tamed?

Chameleons are gentle creatures who may sometimes react to their owners. For this reason, they are not suitable for play or cuddling, as they don’t like being grabbed. “This creates a lot of stress for the chameleon, as predators also grab them in this way,” says Jan-Benedict Glaw, expert at AG Chamäleons. If anything, you might hold your hand out for them to climb if they want to.

Important: Chameleons, like many other terrarium animals, can transmit salmonella. To keep chameleons appropriately, you should wash your hands before and especially after handling the terrarium. “Some keepers even put on thin disposable gloves,” says Glaw. If you have several terrariums, you should also make sure that no bacteria or other pathogens are spread from animal to animal. “That’s why it’s best to have a separate food box and accessories for each animal.”

What else should be considered when keeping chameleons appropriately?

If kept incorrectly, these sensitive reptiles can quickly die. “But the problem is, a chameleon doesn’t show it when they are in a bad way,” says Jan-Benedict Glaw to PETBOOK. Because those who show any weakness in the wild quickly fall victim to predators. “That’s why they also hide their illnesses while in captivity.” By the time their owner finally realizes that something is wrong with them, it is usually too late.

In the event of an examination, a chameleon should always be taken to a vet who has experience with reptiles. “Before you buy a chameleon, it is best to first find out where the closest vet of this kind is,” advises Glaw. You could also find addresses on the AG Chamäleons website.

How much does a chameleon cost?

That depends on the species, says chameleon expert Jan-Benedict Glaw. On average, you can expect to pay a mid-range, three-figure amount per animal. Then there are also the costs for the terrarium, UV lamps, sprinkler system, and other accessories. About 1000 euros can “quickly add up” when purchasing the initial equipment.

Only buy chameleons from reputable breeders and dealers

The expert advises against purchasing a chameleon via eBay or similar platforms. There is a high risk of getting a poorly kept animal. It is best to buy from reputable breeders or specialist dealers. A young chameleon should be at least three months old when it is sold, “by then the critical period is over,” says Jan-Benedict Glaw from AG Chamäleons. However, the chameleon should not be too old either, as they only live between four and seven years, depending on the species.

If you are keeping a chameleon, do you have to report it?

Yes, says Jan-Benedict Glaw. Chameleons are a protected species and therefore must be registered. This can be done with the Lower Nature Conservation Authority in the district where the animal is kept. The presented documents must show, among other things, whether the chameleon is a captive-bred or a permitted wild-caught animal. The papers must be handed over when the chameleon is purchased. If the chameleon has died, the authorities must also be notified.

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Sources

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of PETBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@petbook.de.

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