Panther Chameleon Care Guide

Panther Chameleons (Furcifer Pardalis) are a species of chameleon found in the Eastern and Northern regions of Madagascar in a tropical forest. This unique species are highly sought after for their striking colorations and ease of care.

Enclosures:

·         Habitat: A vertically oriented enclosure is essential to the Panther chameleons as they like to be as high as possible. The recommended size for and adult chameleon is 24x24x48 inches.

·         Ventilation: A Mesh or screen enclosure is ideal for good air flow and circulation. This helps to prevent respiratory issues. See the images below to help with your enclosure set-ups. 

·         Lighting: 

      Panther chameleons do require proper lighting and heating to ensure they maintain proper temperature and UVB absorption. To help your chameleon synthesize vitamin D3, a UVB bulb (Reptisun 5.0 or Arcadia 6% should be the only UVB bulb used for your chameleon. A basking bulb is also required with a temperature of around 85°F.

Temperature and Humidity:

·         Temperature: Maintain a basking spot temperature of 85°F during the day. Ambient temperatures in the 70’s.  Allow the nighttime temperature to drop between 60°-70°.

·         DO NOT USE HEAT OR LIGHTS AT NIGHT!

·         Humidity: Panther chameleons require different humidity levels during the day vs during the night. Daytime levels should be on the drier side at 40-50%. Night levels should  be on the higher side at 80%-100%. Use a Hygrometer to monitor the levels. The use of automatic humidifiers, foggers, or misters during the night for approximately 4-6 hours can help boost and maintain the humidity levels at night.

Substrate:

·         We do not recommend the use of substrate for beginners into the hobby. Keeping the floor clean will help with easy clean up and helps keep the enclosure free from uneaten insects.

·         For advanced keepers, a bioactive enclosure can be beneficial. This does require you to keep the soil clean and have a drainage system set up for excess moisture.

Diet:

·         Panther chameleons feed on insects. Offer a variety of live insects. Panther chameleons will eat insects that are similar to the size of space in between their eyes. You can feed them: crickets, dubia roaches, silkworms, black soldier fly larvae, BSF, hornworms, superworms, as well as others.

·         Make sure to gut-load your insects with greens, and vegetables prior to feeding. Usually the night before is best.

·         Dust your insects before feeding with calcium supplements WITHOUT D3 (repticalucium) at every feeding and a multivitamin supplement twice a month.

Water:

·         Panther chameleons drink water droplets from leaves and surfaces as well as inhales moist air while they sleep. Use a dripper or misting system to provide them with a source of water when temperatures are cooler. We do mist the enclosures before lights turn on, and after lights go off. As well as throughout the day for drier climates. Make sure to use RO water or distilled water.

Handling:

·         Panther chameleons are solitary creatures. They like to live alone and not be handled on a regular basis.

·         However, there is the rare exception to the rule and they can be super friendly and sociable with there handlers.

·         Limit handling to reduce stress on your chameleon.

Enrichments:

·         Include live plants and branches, vines, and perches to allow your chameleon to climb and exercise. Live plants allow for hiding and a more natural habitat.

Health Care:

·         Regularly observe your chameleon for signs of stress, illness, lethargy, changes in coloration or weight loss.

·         Schedule annual check ups with your veterinarian who specializes in chameleons.

Proper care and attention to detail is crucial for keeping your pet chameleon healthy and happy. Always do your homework on the best husbandry practices for your chameleon. Each chameleon will have there own personality and care needs specific to them. When in doubt always check with your vet first, however we are here to help with questions as well.