Yemen Chameleon Care Sheet
General Information
- Scientific Name: Chamaeleo calyptratus
- Common Name: Veiled Chameleon
- Lifespan: 5-7 years for males, 4-6 years for females
- Size: 45-60 cm (18-24 inches)
Housing
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Tank Size:
- Juveniles: Minimum 45 x 45 x 60 cm (18 x 18 x 24 inches).
- Adults: Minimum 60 x 60 x 120 cm (24 x 24 x 48 inches).
- Enclosure Type: Screen enclosures are preferred for better ventilation.
- Substrate: Use paper towels or bare-bottom for easy cleaning. For bioactive setups, use a jungle substrate mix that promotes healthy plant growth and supports beneficial microfauna.
Heating
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Temperature Gradient:
- Basking Spot: 29-35°C (85-95°F)
- Ambient Temperature: 22-27°C (72-80°F)
- Night Temperature: Should not drop below 16°C (60°F)
- Heating: Use a basking lamp to create a hot spot and maintain ambient temperatures. Always use a thermostat to control the heat source.
Lighting
- UVB Lighting: Essential for calcium metabolism and overall health. Use a 5.0 UVB bulb for 10-12 hours daily.
- Photoperiod: Mimic natural conditions with a 12-hour light/12-hour dark cycle.
Humidity
- Humidity Level: 50-70%.
- Misting: Mist the enclosure 2-3 times a day to maintain humidity and provide drinking water. Consider using a dripper system as well.
Diet
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Staple Foods:
- Insects: Crickets, dubia roaches, silkworms, and locusts.
- Vegetation: Offer leafy greens like collard greens, mustard greens, and dandelion greens.
- Supplementation: Dust insects with calcium powder daily and a multivitamin supplement once a week.
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Feeding Frequency:
- Juveniles: Feed daily.
- Adults: Feed every other day.
Water
- Water: Provide water through misting and a dripper system, as chameleons prefer to drink water droplets off leaves.
Handling
- Handling Frequency: Handle minimally to reduce stress. Chameleons are best observed rather than handled frequently.
- Support: Gently support their body and allow them to grip onto you.
Health
- Shedding: Ensure proper humidity to aid shedding. Provide rough surfaces for them to rub against.
- Signs of Illness: Loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, abnormal feces, respiratory issues, or visible parasites. Consult a reptile veterinarian if any signs are noticed.
- MBD (Metabolic Bone Disease): Caused by lack of UVB lighting and insufficient calcium. Ensure proper UVB exposure and calcium supplementation.
Cleaning
- Spot Cleaning: Daily removal of feces and uneaten food.
- Deep Cleaning: Monthly deep clean of the entire enclosure, including changing the substrate and disinfecting the tank and decor.
Enrichment
- Climbing Opportunities: Provide branches, vines, and live or artificial plants to encourage natural climbing behaviors.
- Hide Variety: Offer multiple hides with different textures and materials to provide security.
Common Issues
- Dehydration: Ensure proper humidity levels and regular misting.
- Stress: Minimize handling and provide plenty of foliage and hiding spots.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a healthy and happy life for your Yemen Chameleon. Regular observation and proper care are key to their well-being.