side striped chameleon care - Noah's Ark Pets
Common Name: Side Striped Chameleon
Scientific Name: Chamaeleo (Trioceros) bitaeniatus
Adult Size: reach 4 inches long but some get to be 5 inches total length.
Widely and abundantly distributed throughout east Africa including Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, southern Sudan, northern Tanzania, Uganda, and northeastern Congo Most animals have a small parietal crest a dorsal crest but gular and ventral crests are absent. They have a single white lateral line. Colors include green, blue, red and white along with others. Side Striped Chameleons are usually tame but frequent handling could stress the chameleon. You should separate males to avoid territorial disputes.
Captive Environment:
An adult chameleon will require at least a 29-gallon high aquarium. Suitable substrates for your chameleon's home include reptile carpet, shredded coconut husks or reptile bark. Chameleons should be provided with several climbing branches real or artificial plants and real or artificial climbing vines.
Lighting: Full-Spectrum lighting that emits UVB is a must for captive reptiles. Reptiles depend on ultra-violet light to synthesize vitamin D3, which regulates calcium absorption in the intestine. The light should be positioned less than 18" from your pet for maximum effect. Glass blocks ultraviolet light, and air circulation, therefore it should never be used as a top for the enclosure. A 12- hour day/ night lighting cycle is a good start for your pet reptile. Using a timer is the best way to ensure that the proper amount of light is received.
Temperature:
Temperatures should be in the low to mid 70's F with a basking area that has a temperature in the mid 80’s F. There are several methods for establishing the proper temperature range for your reptile. Using spotlights of variable wattage incandescent bulbs on the outside of the enclosure, and under tank heaters or any combination of these When using spotlights for 24 hour heat use red, night bulbs or a ceramic heating element to maintain day / night light cycle. Never place lights inside the enclosure where the reptile could come in contact with them and get burned. Use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained.
Food:
Side Striped chameleons are carnivores. Their primary diet consists of insects like crickets and mealworms. DO NOT LEAVE THE CRICKETS IN THE CAGE FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME. You should dust your chameleon's food with a vitamin/ mineral supplement.
Water:
Chameleons usually will not drink from standing water; therefore a water bowl is not necessary. Misting of the vines and leaves at least twice a day is recommended. You should also provide a water dripper with a catch basin for a constant water source.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it.
