Chameleon Care: The Complete Guide to Caring for and Keeping Chameleons as Pets

Chameleons (who belong to the Chamaeleonidae family) are a highly unique clade of reptile which originate from Africa, Europe and Asia. In the present day, chameleons can be often found in warm habitats that range from rain forests to deserts and can be found throughout Africa, Madagascar, southern Europe (near the equator), southern Asia and they have even been introduced to Hawaii, California and Florida. There are over 200 recognized species of chameleon which means they come in a wide variety of sizes and colour morphs. Chameleons are adapted for visual hunting and climbing. They have multiple specialized features which help them hunt and avoid predators which include their ability to camouflage themselves by changing their color, their zygodactylous feet, their prehensile tail and their independently mobile eyes. All of the aforementioned specialized features will be discussed in a separate section of this care manual. Before purchasing any pet it is important to understand that as a pet owner you are responsible for the care and wellbeing of your pet. It is important to try and learn as much as you can about the animal you are considering to keep as a pet to make sure that your lifestyle, household and financial status are suited to provide your pet with the best possible care. This guide has been designed to provide you with both precise and concise information about a chameleon’s basic needs to help you provide your pet with the best quality care practices.