Chameleons are among the most fascinating lizards or animals that exist on this planet.
The variety of chameleons is so distinctive that if you attempt to describe one to someone who’s never had the pleasure of seeing one before, they will be sceptical!
They have tongues that are longer than their bodies, and eyes that move 360 degrees. Additionally, they have the capacity to alter the color their skin. However, the best part is, many species of the chameleon are great pet species.
Chameleons with pets have fascinating behaviors gorgeous colors and are beautiful lizards.
In this article, we will look at chameleons and the way they appear. Then we discuss the top species for pets before discussing the right way to select one and take care of one.
Chameleon types
Chameleons are very vibrant and slow-moving lizards which are found in trees. There are more than 200 species of Chameleons that are all part of the Chamaeleonidae family. Chamaeleonidae. There is another subfamily Brookesiinae which is home to the pygmy the chameleons.
They are among the most intriguing unique, fascinating, and entertaining creatures in the world.
Chameleons have a variety of distinctive characteristics, including their long tails that are prehensile, vibrant hues ( that change with their mood) and distinctive hunting techniques.
However, every kind of chameleon is unique.
Certain species are definitely better than other species to be pets.
If, for instance, you’re searching for a best pet chameleon that is a beginner it is best to choose small, but colorful species. the Vesseled, Flap-Necked and Jackson’s Chameleon are the best alternatives. If you’re looking for a small petthat could be kept safely in a glass terrarium then choose one of the Pygmy varieties is a great option.
If you’re a seasoned reptile owner, you may need a little more challenge. If that is the case, think about an 4-Horned, or perhaps an Meller’s.
Or, perhaps you’d like an expensive, attractive reptile?
The subspecies you choose to include in this species, such as the Panther Chameleon such as those of Ambilobe as well as the Ambanja are a great choice for a variety of colors.
Pet Chameleon Species List
They are excellent pets. If you’re looking for an intriguing lizard to keep in check There’s a good chance there’s a kind of chameleon that is suitable for you. Below is a table listing the most popular species of pet chameleon and their appearance and what they cost.
| # | Species | Price | Color | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Panther | $300 | Variable ranging from green to yellow, and finally blue | 16 to 22 inches |
| 2 | Veiled | $50+ | The color is green, with yellow markings. | 10 to 22 inches |
| 3 | Jackson’s | $35+ | Green | 8-12 inches |
| 4 | Dwarf The Jackson’s | Unknown | Green | 7 to 8 inches |
| 5 | Ambilobe Panther | $300+ | Red, blue, green, yellow, orange | 16 to 22 inches |
| 6 | Four-Horned | $100+ | Greenish – yellow | 10-14 inches |
| 7 | Parson’s | $1,000+ | Combinations of blue, green white, yellow and brown | 16 to 28 inches |
| 8 | Cuban False | $150 | Gray or Tan | 6-7 inches |
| 9 | Pygmy | $50+ | Gray or Tan | 3 to 4 inches |
| 10 | Bearded Pygmy | $50 | Brown, tan or green | 3 inches |
| 11 | Usambara Pitted Pygmy | $50 | Gray or tan | 3 inches |
| 12 | Carpet | $200+ | Combination of yellow and black or blue, red or purple. | 7 to 8 inches |
| 13 | Ambanja Panther | $300+ | Blue, red, green, purple | 16 to 22 inches |
| 14 | Meller’s | $150+ | Yellow and green | 20 inches |
| 15 | Senegal | $30+ | Green shades in shades | 6-8 inches |
| 16 | Fischer’s | $100+ | Green | 8 to 15 inches |
| 17 | Flap-Necked | $50 | Black and green | 8-12 inches |
The Best Pet Chameleon
1. Panther
Panthers ( Furcifer pardalis) are among the most sought-after species of pet chameleons. Due to this, they are expensive. Adults are often sold for $300 or less, but especially vibrant individuals can go for $500.
Their popularity is due to their colour, easy of maintenance and ease of handling.
Panther species are stunning and come with a variety of bright colors. They are believed as an extremely vibrant species of chameleon. They typically feature a stripe of color along their sides, and can be almost every color you can think of. From yellow, to green and even neon blue and everything in between!
Males have ridges on each side of their head. They generally grow bigger than females. But the two genders are both big lizards.
Panther Chameleons are also require less frequent maintenance than other varieties of chameleons. Their needs for care are simple.
These lizards are also among of the ones that are the most accommodating to interactions and handling.
They are great for those who are just beginning to be able to communicate and play with their animal.
2. Veiled
Veliled Chameleons ( Chamaeleo calyptratus) are another well-liked pet species, especially with novices. They are also among the easiest species of chameleon to locate since they are at a number of pet stores, often at as little as $50.
The species with a veil are the most simple Chameleon for novices to take care of.
If their basic needs for a good life are fulfilled They are a great pet. But, they’re not as comfortable with their handling like other species.
The price of $50, coupled with their basic needs for care make them a perfect pet for new owners.
They are native in Yemen in Yemen and Saudi Arabia. That’s why they’re sometimes referred to as Yemen Chameleons. Their name comes due to the huge casque that is placed that sits on top of their heads. They are more imposing on males than females.
They might not be as varied and vibrant as other species, however Veiled varieties are still stunning. Their primary color is green but they usually feature vertical stripes of brown, yellow or even light blue.
3. Jackson’s Chameleon
The Jackson’s Chameleon ( Trioceros jacksonii) is a tiny species from Kenya and Tanzania within Eastern Africa. They are also known as Three-Horned Chameleons due to the fact that males have three large horns on top of their heads.
Their horns and their tiny size make them a favorite. Because of their popularity , they are readily available at a variety of pet stores for less than $100.
In terms of color Jackson’s color is fairly basic in comparison to other species of Chameleons.
Instead of mixing several shades, they are usually solid green with the darker brown or green markings.
Unfortunately, Jackson’s require more attention than the majority of. Therefore, while they’re an excellent beginner species but they’re not the ideal choice to keep for the first time.
4. Dwarf Jackson’s Chameleon
The dwarf Jackson’s ( Trioceros jacksonii merumontanus) is a very rare variant of the Jackson’s Three Horned Chameleon. The care they receive is similar to the other Jackson’s Chameleons. The name of this lizard comes from merumontanus. It is found on Mount Meru in Tanzania. This is the only area in the world in which they are found.
Like the name implies, this subspecies does not develop as much as the other Jackson’s.
They’re mostly blue-green, with a little yellow on their heads. Males sport three big hairs on their heads and females are blessed with one tiny hair horn.
Since 2001, Tanzania has put strict export restrictions on their wildlife. Due to these restrictions on exports pets are extremely uncommon across the United States.
5. Ambilobe Panther
Ambilobe Panthers ( Furcifer pardalis ssp.) are one of the subspecies of Panther.
It can be the most well-known kind in the world of Panther Chameleon. They are thought to be the prettiest hue of any Chameleon. They also possess all the traits that make Panther well-known: simple maintenance routine, huge dimensions and are simple to manage.
Ambilobe species are extremely vibrant colors. They typically have bright and vivid, with a mix of blue, red and yellow. They also have orange, green and white.
In contrast to many chameleons Ambilobes are among the species that is the most gentle. Some males will climb onto their handlers as their enclosures are being cleaned.
These positives are what make all of these positives make Ambilobe an exquisite pet. Adults cost around $300 to $600 depending upon their weight and size.
6. Four-Horned Chameleon
The Four-Horned Chameleon ( Trioceros quadricornis) is part of the same genus and species as Jackson’s. Both Chameleons have similar traits. They’re also similar in color . They have the same greenish-yellow color with lighter markings that vary between blue and purple.
As opposed to the Jackson’s, a Four-Horned Chameleon grows a few inches bigger.
Additionally, it has 4 hairs on its head, not three. However, the horns on this head aren’t as huge as the ones that are on Jackson’s.
It is a species that belongs to Chameleon is indigenous to the mountainous rainforests of Cameroon.
Their natural habitat is humid and cold. The temperatures are usually less than the temperature of 80°F. They are extremely sensitive to extreme temperatures and low humidity. This causes them to be difficult to take care of as pets especially for newbies.
They require specialized maintenance and a seasoned keeper.
7. Parson’s Chameleon
Parson’s Chameleons ( Calumma parsoni) are among the biggest chameleons in the world!
The biggest individuals in this species could grow larger than any other Chameleon and grow to 70cm. Due to their massive size, certain individuals might require a larger enclosure for reptiles. Additionally taking care of Parson’s Chameleons is like taking care of other species.
Parsons’ don’t have immediately identifiable traits
Instead the pet lizards are incredible shades.
This species is very diverse in its color and pattern. They are mixed with white, blue, green and yellow. They also have huge dark diagonal stripes along their sides. A few are even white, with stripes of green!
Their vibrant colors make them extremely popular breed to maintain, however they are not without the price of.
Many Parsons can cost over 1,000 dollars. It is partly due to their coloring and also due to the fact that breeding these lizards can be fast. The majority of eggs don’t develop until 18 months after they’ve laid!
8. Cuban False
It is believed that the Cuban false ( Anolis barbatus) is not really a Chameleon.
This Lizard is an kind of anole which is part of the family of Dactyloidae.
Although it is a completely different species of lizard, the Cuban False does possess a few features that make them similar to Chameleons. The Cuban False is a lizard with the head of a casque. They also have the ability to look at their eyes without the assistance of one another.
In contrast to other chameleons, unlike other chameleons, the Cuban False is typically grayish-tan in color. They do not come in the variety of vibrant hues that Chameleons have.
No matter what color they are regardless of their color, they are a truly unique pets lizards.
Cuban False Ole is also cheaper than the other species on this list.
9. Pygmy
There are a variety of varieties that belong to the Pygmy Chameleon. They all belong to the Genus Rhampholeon as well. They are referred to as Pygmy and African leaf Chameleons.
Pygmy lizards aren’t like the other chameleons listed on our list.
The primary major difference is their size. Pygmies do not get more than three inches which is why they are called. They’re certainly among the most adorable pets that we have listed.
In addition to their size In addition to their size, the Pygmy Chameleons also have shorter tails. The majority of chameleons have long prehensile tails that aid in climbing trees and living in the forest. Pygmies don’t require lengthy prehensile tails for existence in leaf litter.
There are many kinds of Pygmy species, but the majority can be bought for less than $200.
They’re a fantastic option for those looking for an uncommon, smaller species of Lizard.
10. Bearded Pygmy Chameleon
The bearded Pygmy ( Rieppeleon brevicaudatus) is one of the Pygmy Chameleon varieties. Similar to the majority of species within their genus, they are small and don’t live in trees.
The majority of species belonging to the Genus Rhampholeon are quite alike.
Bearded Pygmies are an unassuming species. They can alter their colors in a certain degree but they usually are more muted brown or brown or. They excel at blending into their surroundings.
From a side perspective, from a side view, the Bearded Pygmy is the similar shape and color as smaller leaves.
11. Usambara Pitted Pygmy
It is the Usambara Pitted Pygmy ( Rhampholeon temporalis) is a smaller species of Pygmy Chameleon.
They share a variety of characteristics with other species of their species. They typically have a hue of brown, tan or gray, and have patterns that are often reminiscent of a dead leaf. They are also known for their tan or gray coloring. Usambara Pitted Pygmy also has diagonal stripes along their sides.
The species also has lips that are flat similar to birds’ beaks. Lips like these, and their longer tails, assist to differentiate the Pygmy species from others.
Usambara Pitted Pygmies should be suggested for experienced reptile keepers only.
They have extremely particular requirements for high humidity that could be a challenge for new keepers.
As compared to other pets chameleons affordable and can be bought at a cost of $50.
12. Carpet Chameleon
It is the Carpet Chameleon ( Furcifer lateralis) is a vibrantly colored variety of Panther Chameleon found on the Island of Madagascar. They are common across their habitat and are found in a range of habitats, including forests, deserts, and high altitudes.
They are larger in comparison to the three Pygmy Lizards mentioned above, however, they are smaller when compared with other species of pet chameleons.
They aren’t as big However, they make up for with their color.
Carpet Panthers can be the combination of orange, yellow, blue, red and purple and dark designs. They also have dark spots on their sides.
The Carpet is more affordable than other kinds of Chameleon however, they could be priced at upwards of $200.
13. Ambanja Panther
It is the Ambanja Panther ( Furcifer pardalis ssp.) is another well-known subspecies of the Panther Chameleon. Similar to other Panthers they are also a reptile with a long tail. Ambanja is a huge reptile with a long large tail that is prehensile and used to navigate the tree branches.
Ambanja Panthers are nearly unmistakable.
Ambanja Ambanja The Ambanja is an exceptionally vibrant electronic blue color. Sometimes, they have greens, reds, and even purples in the mix but the majority of them are solid blue.
Their deep blue coloring make them one of the sought-after pet chameleons.
The care for this particular species is similar to taking care of any Panther species. It’s not terribly difficult, however it is not recommended for novices due to its cost and humidity demands.
14. Meller’s Chameleon
The Meller’s Chameleon ( Trioceros melleri) is a huge lizard, found within the East African Countries of Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. It is among the most massive chameleons outside Madagascar that can reach up to 2 feet long. In the wild, these creatures grow large enough to devour not just insects but also birds of smaller sizes.
Meller’s are also known as Meller’s are also known as the Giant One-Horned Chameleon because of their size.
Similar to Jackson’s cousin Meller’s also have horns. But instead of having three horns, they only have one tiny horn that is located on the tip the snout.
Meller’s usually have dark spots that are on top of vertical bars of yellow and green.
However, this lizard isn’t particularly immune to the stress of unsuitable management conditions. This makes them very difficult to take care of. It is recommended to let this species be taken care of by experts.
15. Senegal
Senegal is a chameleon species. Senegal ( Chamaeleo senegalensis) is a very popular species of chameleon due its shy nature and its small adult size. They are larger than Pygmys however, they are smaller than species such as the Panther.
Senegal Chameleons are stunning Lizards, but their coloring is dependent upon how they feel and their their surroundings. A majority of them are soft, solid green that can also have darker spots.
Though the majority of Senegal species have a calm and peaceful personality, they are not particularly tolerant of handling.
They are a great pet in the hands of knowledgeable keepers who aren’t keen on managing them. The high humidity they require could be a problem for new keepers.
16. Fischer’s Chameleon
Fischer’s Chameleons ( Kinyongia fischeri ssp.) are a extremely rare species of chameleon that is found on the mountains of Nguu in Tanzania.
The tails of Fischer’s are often long and this has resulted in certain subspecies being referred to as Monkey-Tailed Chameleons! Males also sport two long horns. They give the species a common name: the Eastern Usambara Two-Horned Chameleon.
The lizard’s color is usually a mix of green and can range from dark brownish green to a vibrant lime green.
17. Flap-Necked
Flap-necked Chameleons ( Chamaeleo dilepis) are a very popular beginner chameleon that originates from Southern Africa. They are very manageable in size and come with simple maintenance requirements due to the fact that they don’t have very humid demands.
In addition to the flaps on their necks These lizards sport the famous ‘chameleon appearance’. They also have a tiny long tail, casque and typically come in a variety of green hues. However, certain species may are brown or orange in pattern.
If the keeper is doing their research , these chameleons can be excellent for those who are just starting out.
Which animal species impressed you most? Tell TRB by leaving a comment below.
