Chameleon Supplies

What is a chameleon?

A chameleon is a slow-moving, arboreal reptile known for its long, prehensile tail, extendable tongue, and incredible ability to change colour and camouflage itself within its environment. There are more than 200 species of chameleon, found across a range of habitats in Africa, Southern Europe, India, and the Middle East. Several of these species are commonly kept as pets, such as Panther Chameleons, Yemen Chameleons, Jackson’s Chameleons, and Veiled Chameleons.

How do chameleons change colour?

Chameleons can turn their scaly skin into a range of vivid colours within a matter of seconds. They do this by dispersing and concentrating pigment granules, known as melanophore cells, in the skin cells that contain them. A chameleon’s colour can be determined by a range of factors, including lighting, temperature, and even their own emotions. Some of the most striking patterns are observed in male chameleons during mating seasons.

How long do chameleons live for?

As long as they’re housed in a suitably sized environment and given the correct care, chameleons can live for 5 to 10 years. Panther Chameleons are perhaps the shortest-lived chameleon species, living for 5 to 7 years on average, while Jackson’s Chameleons are known to live for more than a decade. To make sure your chameleon lives a long and happy life, it’s important that you research exactly how to care for it before you buy it.

What do chameleons eat?

Most chameleons have long, extendable tongues that they use to catch insects such as locusts, grasshoppers, stick insects, and crickets. Some larger chameleons also use their tongues to catch small birds and other, smaller lizards. It’s recommended that you try to replicate your chameleon’s natural diet by offering it a range of insects, as well as some occasional fruits and vegetables. You should also try to feed your chameleon every other day, or at least 3 to 4 times a week.