Veiled Chameleon

General Information

 * Scientific Name: Chamaeleo calyptratus
 * Male Lifespan: 6-8 years
 * Female Lifespan: 4-6 years
 * Male Length: 20-24 inches
 * Female Length: 16-18 inches
 * Insectivore
 * Diurnal
 * Arboreal

Geographic Range and Habitat
Veiled Chameleons are native to the Arabian Peninsula in Yemen and Saudi Arabia. They spend their time living in trees and large plants in mountains and valleys.

Availability
Veiled Chameleons are possibly the most common species of chameleon in the reptile-keeping hobby and are available at most reptile stores and some pet stores.

Behaviour and Handling
Veiled Chameleons should not normally be handled because they are easily stressed out. Too much stress makes them become aggressive and ultimately shortens their lifespan. It is recommended to enjoy them as a display reptile.

Housing and Substrate
Tall screened enclosures are the ideal cages for Veiled Chameleons because of its optimal airflow. Juveniles can be housed in an enclosure with the dimensions 16in x 16in x 36in (should be tall). Adults should be held in an enclosure with at least the dimensions of 2ft x 3ft x 3ft or 2ft x 2ft x 4ft (tall). The enclosure should be furnished with vines, branches, and plants. An option is to place a potted tree in the enclosure and add branches into the cage for added climbing space (ex. Umbrella tree or Ficus tree). There should be an opening to leave room for climbing and a basking spot.

Moss, bark, or coconut fiber, can be used as substrate to increase the humidity, but some believe no substrate should be used to eliminate the risk of impaction.

Heating and Lighting
The best idea for a basking spot for a Veiled Chameleon is a stable branch or vine. The basking spot should be 88-98 degrees Fahrenheit and provided by a heat lamp. The ambient temperature away from the basking spot should be 72-80 degrees. They can withstand night-time temperatures down to around 50 degrees. UVB lighting is very important for the health of the chameleon and is a must.

Diet and Vitamins
Crickets should be the staple diet if the Veiled Chameleon. The crickets should be the length of the width of the chameleon's head. Babies and juveniles should be fed 1-2 times a day and once a day for adults. Babies and juveniles should have their crickets dusted with calcium and vitamin D3 two to three times a week. Adults should have them dusted once every 2 weeks. Crickets should also be gut-loaded for extra nutrition.

Water and Humidity
Proper hydration is very important for Veiled Chameleons because they drink a large amount of water. Chameleons can't see still water, so to provide it the enclosure should be heavily misted twice a day (mist every part of the cage). A drip system or automated misting system are useful for keeping this animal.

Sites Used

 * http://www.lllreptile.com/articles/15-veiled-chameleon
 * http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Veiled-Chameleon/