Jackson's Chameleon (More...)

Habitat/Housing:Chameleons are arboreal (primarily tree-dwelling) and need lots of climbing surfaces. Successful permanent maintenance requires at least a 25 gallon terrarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. The ideal habitat needs to be spacious, well decorated, and well ventilated without being drafty. A screened enclosure will work the best for a habitat. This habitat can have a glass bottom and front with four sides being screen. The combination of a small ficus tree (Ficus benjemina) and silk plants is excellent in providing the security a chameleon needs. The use of other branches is suggested to increase the options of climbing surfaces. As noted in the Temperature/Humidity heading, a basking area is needed. This basking area is best achieved with either an incandescent bulb or spotlight basking bulb being placed at one end of the habitat with a "basking-branch" placed underneath. Remember that the basking area does not need to get any hotter than 90 degrees, so a 60 watt bulb should be the maximum wattage used.Substrate (Bedding):A mixture of Bed-A-Beast covered with moist moss or cage carpet is an ideal substrate for adult chameleon terrariums. The substrate should be kept moist to maintain an even humidity level, but changed regularly to avoid bacterial growth.Responsible pet ownership begins on the trip home!For the best health and well being of your new pet, it is important to remember to take it directly home. If you have more shopping or errands to complete, consider picking up your pet last. This will ensure the animal encounters the least amount of stress possible. Have the new terrarium completely set up before bringing your new friend "home". Additionally, make sure your new family member is allowed enough time to adjust to its new home. Wait three or four days before attempting to handle your pet and always supervise children when they interact with pets.