veiled chameleon care - Noah's Ark Pets
Common Name: Veiled Chameleon
Scientific Name: Chamaelo Calyptratus
Distribution: Yemen
Size: 12"-24"
The Veiled Chameleons are found in the more arid regions of Yemens woodlands.Males can become territorial, separate from other males. Usually tame with handling.
Captive Environment:
Adults require a 2'x2'x4' size well ventilated enclosure. Are best kept alone.Provide a basking area with access to a cooler zone. Provide several branches, logs, and plants for climbing. Likes areas of dense foliage, (pothos and ficus are good plants to use) .
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:
Day temperature should be between 80-95 degrees F. Maintain night temperature range between 70-75 degrees 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. Never place lights inside the enclosure where the reptile could come in contact with them and get burned. When using spotlights for 24 hour heat, use red, night bulbs or a ceramic heating element to maintain day / night light cycle. Use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained.
Water:
Spray leaves of plant in enclosure once or twice daily, DO NOT spray animal directly.Or use a water drip system to provide water for your pet. Will not drink from a bowl of water. This species requires only low levels of humidity.
Food:
This species is omnivore (plant and meat eater) 70% of diet should be crickets dusted with calcium supplement, once a week, also dust with vitamin supplement. Likes dark greens (collard, mustard, turnip, dandelion, clover). DO NOT FEED SPINACH, CABBAGE, OR KALE. These vegetables block the absorption of calcium in the reptile's body. Eats small insects, flies, mosquitoes, and fruit flies. When adult can eat super worms, mealworms, wax worms and pinky mice.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it.
