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🦎 Yemen Chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus) Care Sheet

Yemen chameleons, also known as veiled chameleons, are striking and fascinating reptiles known for their colour-changing abilities and independent nature.

Origin: Mountainous and coastal regions of Yemen and Saudi Arabia
Size: Males up to 60 cm (24"), females up to 35 cm (14")
Lifespan: 5–8 years (females shorter-lived)
Temperament: Generally solitary and display-oriented; minimal handling recommended
Activity: Diurnal (active during the day) and arboreal


🏠 Housing

  • Enclosure Size:
    - Adults: 60 x 60 x 120 cm (2' x 2' x 4') screen enclosure is the ideal
    - Juveniles: Smaller enclosure with proper humidity and ventilation

  • Use a well-ventilated mesh or hybrid enclosure

  • Vertical space is essential with plenty of climbing branches and foliage

  • Live or artificial plants help with humidity and hiding spots

  • Do not house with other chameleons—they are solitary

🌡️ Temperature & Lighting

  • Basking spot: 32–35°C (90–95°F)

  • Ambient (day): 24–28°C (75–82°F)

  • Night: Can drop to 16–20°C (60–68°F)

  • UVB is essential for vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium absorption

  • Use a 10–12% T5 UVB tube placed above the mesh top or in the enclosure

  • Replace UVB bulbs every 6–12 months (check brand guidance)

  • Maintain a 12-hour day/night cycle

  • Basking bulb for heat and light

💧 Humidity

  • Ideal humidity: 60–80%

  • Mist the enclosure 2–3 times daily or use an automatic misting system

  • Provide a dripper system—chameleons often only drink moving water

  • Monitor humidity with a digital hygrometer

  • Ensure good airflow to prevent respiratory issues

🥗 Feeding

  • Insectivorous diet—live insects only

  • Insects: crickets, locusts, dubia roaches, silkworms, calciworms, occasional waxworms

  • Offer gut-loaded insects with appropriate supplementation

  • Feed juveniles daily, adults every 1–2 days

  • Dust insects with calcium daily and multivitamins once a week

  • Occasional dark leafy greens or fruit (e.g. mango, apple) can be offered, but not always accepted

🧼 Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Spot clean daily—remove feces and uneaten insects

  • Disinfect water drippers/misters weekly to prevent bacterial buildup

  • Full enclosure clean monthly with reptile-safe disinfectant

  • Watch for signs of stress, dehydration, or shedding issues

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