New Article: Chameleons in the Wild & Captivity

[findi]

Hi All,

Please check out: An Overview of Chameleon Care & natural History

“Chameleons reach their greatest diversity in Madagascar, where over 80 species may be found. Mainland Africa is home to 100+ species, while the Middle East, Europe and India each support 2 species. Veiled and Jackson’s Chameleons have been introduced to the USA and Mexico”.
Often though of as rainforest animals, Chameleons have actually adapted to life in a wide variety of habitats, including dry woodlands, desert oasis, montane forests (where they endure snow) and even city parks…Read article here:
http://blogs.thatpetplace.com/thatr...ew-of-their-natural-history-and-captive-care/

Comments and questions appreciated,

Thanks, Frank

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[Toogledoo]

I read it. From what I've read and heard, most people don't agree with using a substrate or WC bugs. I use newspaper along the bottom for easier cleanup. People really feed pinkies to their chameleons every once in a while? Interesting, I haven't heard this. Also, I thought they changed color based on mood as well? Did you write that article?

 

[findi]

Hi, Thanks for your comment.

As with many herps, substrate choice can be tricky. Newspapers work well in many situations; others are not usually a problem where the lizards feed from the branches, a bowl or via tongs. Certain substrates are also useful in maintaining humidity, esp for small ground-dwellers.

I've used wild-caught inverts for many years, including as part of the standard protocol at the Bronx Zoo; however, care is needed in collection, species selection, etc. Please see this article http://blogs.thatpetplace.com/thatr...and-amphibian-food-pesticide-concerns-part-1/

for a bit more on the subject.

Most wild chameleons rarely if ever take vertebrates, and I do not favor the heavy use of pinks. liver and kidney damage has been reported in tiger salamanders, basilisks and other insectivorous spps fed largely on rodents. However, limited use, for very large species, seems fine;

Re mood - Yes...by "communication" I had meant to include mood; also stress, temperature. The camouflage aspect, which has been out-of favor as of late, has now been somewhat revived - please see this interesting note on predator specific color changes:
http://blogs.thatpetplace.com/thatr...s-concerning-predator-specific-color-changes/

Enjoy, Best, Frank