Chameleon

From Pet Encyclopedia

Veiled Chameleon

Chameleon

Origin of Breed

Saudi Arabia / Yemen

Scientific Name

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[edit] Introduction

This species is captive bred in large numbers and would appear to be one of the most adaptable chameleon species for the pet keeper willing to invest some time and effort. With a 2-8 year life span, these are short lived lizards and grow up to 33cm for females and 60cm for males.

[edit] Origin and History

Chameleons are unlike any other lizards and are a favourite choice for anyone who is interested in fantastic reptiles. Also know as the Yem Chameleon, this lizard is native to Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

[edit] Appearance

Probably the most incredible lizards of all, chameleons are a true wonder of the natural world. They are noted for their many unusual features: they have amazing colour changing abilities, independently moving eyes and an incredible, extendible tongue. The chameleon's amazing ability to change colour is much misunderstood. Emotions and territorial posturing, as well as camouflage, are responsible for the array of colours exhibited.

[edit] Handling

Most Veiled Chameleons tolorate handling relatively well, especially if it involves hand feeding. Start while your pet is quite young to condition it to this sort of contact on a regular basis. Never pick up the chameleon as this causes great offence and visible stress. Instead, allow it to climb uponto your hand and fingers or a small hand-held branch. After handling you can offer a treat, like a wax worm to encourage that handling means treats and so it will also help with them tolorating handling more.

[edit] Housing Requirements

Like many lizards, chameleons like furnishings in the vivarium to remain in the same place, so place plants , branches or watering areas in permanent sites. Chameleons are best housed in larger vivaria: a single specimen needs a 90x90x50cm vivarium and a daytime temperature of 20-30 degress celcius. As chameleons are bush or shrub dwellers, offer living plants, or at least, sturdy plastic plants and branches on which to climb. Position spotlights that create basking areas away from live or plastic plants as they may singe or melt. Full spectrum lighting will ensure good plant and pet growth. Mist spray daily and or provide a circulating water feature to keep humidity levels up. Do make sure there is good ventilation without causing chilly draughts.

[edit] Diet

Chameleons need to eat and drink regularly, with water being preferred in droplet form. All live foods can be tried, but climbing or flying insects are best. Vary the diet to provide a range of vitamins and minerals. Some garden-caught food is advised, and larger Veiled Cameleons may accept highly nutritious pink mice. This lizard will also eat a range of leaves, fruit and vegetables. These and, indeed, all foods should be dusted with vitamin and mineral supplements.

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