Reptile enthusiasts may be familiar with Jackson’s chameleons. This eye-catching chameleon is renowned for its unique color and appearance. If you’re new to the reptile world and are thinking about adding one to your home, it’s worth going over these basic care guidelines before you head to the pet store. Here’s what you need to know about these beautiful creatures. 

How They Live

To improve breathability, Jackson’s chameleons should ideally be housed alone in an enclosure that offers proper ventilation. A spacious screen cage is ideal since they tend to become startled at the sight of their own reflection in the glass. Secluding them from other chameleons will also prevent them from feeling threatened. Since they like to climb, be sure to add a tree, plants, bushes, and artificial plants. You can cover the surface with a paper towel, or leave it bare. Avoid using wood chips and other materials that could be harmful to your pet. To minimize bacteria buildup and mold formation, clean the cage thoroughly about once a week.

Climates They Favor

Jackson’s chameleons derive from Kenya and Tanzania, where rainfall is prevalent. Even without that rain, humidity levels are typically high, and chameleons thrive on that for their daily moisture intake. That’s why it’s crucial to mist the tank at least twice a day to maintain optimal humidity levels.

A daytime temperature of at least 80° is appropriate in mimicking their natural environment. Overnight temperatures can safely drop to between 60° and 70°. If you need to heat the cage, you can use a heat light that emits potent ultraviolet B rays. It’s also key to expose them to natural sunlight as much as possible. You might consider buying a ventilated outdoor enclosure from the pet store for this purpose.

What They Eat

Jackson’s chameleons feast on gut-loaded insects, or those that are raised in such a way that adds vital nutrients to its composition. You can purchase crickets, mealworms, roaches, flies, silkworms, and grasshoppers at the pet store. It’s best to avoid wild insects, which may have suffered pesticide exposure and will not provide the same nutritional benefits. They may also eat any plant matter that you put inside, so be mindful of its toxicity. Viable options include mustard greens and sugar snap peapods. The reptiles typically don’t feed on water directly from the bowl, but will often sip the droplets that fall after you mist the plants.

If you’re ready to add a beautiful Jackson’s chameleon to your home, visit The Pet Hale in Mililani, HI. The 3,500-square-foot pet store has everything that you need, from live animals, including reptiles and puppies, to pet supplies and accessories. The locally-owned facility carries an extensive range of male and female chameleons, along with the insects that they need to thrive. Visit the website to browse some of their offerings, or give the friendly staff a call at (808) 696-1083.