Veiled chameleons, Chamaeleo calyptorarus, are considered to be one of the popular types of chameleon. They have the special ability to look in any direction without even moving their heads or changed their body position. Believe it or not, their eyes can swivel for almost 180 degrees. They can also look to direction at the same time. Their average size is 6-10 inches long and can live for five years or more if proper care applied.
When having your very own veiled chameleon, it is already your responsibility to provide your pet its basic needs. First thing will be the housing. Provide an enclosure which is appropriate with the size of your pet. The enclosure must be big enough for your pet to roam around and do its normal exercise. If you really don't know how to make an enclosure about your pet, you may also contact a qualified veterinarian for some advise. As for the substrate, there is no specific kind for you to use since they are really tree-dwellers. So any substrate will do. The enclosure must contained branches for climbing and non-exotic plants for hiding. Temperature gradient must be 100F in the warm side while 70F in the cool side. Incandescent light or ceramic heater can be used as a primary heat source. UVB ray with full spectrum fluorescent light must be turned on for 10-12 hours. As for their food, you can give them gut-loaded cricket, mealworms, wax worms and many more. The food must be sprinkled with calcium on daily basis while multivitamin supplement once or twice a week. Adults must be fed every other day while juveniles everyday. They may also not drink water directly from a bowl so allow proper misting in the non-toxic plants.
Veiled chameleons like other chameleons do change their colors depending on their mood. The males are larger and more colorful than the females. This type of reptile is easy to be stressed also specially when being handled so regular handling is not recommended. As for their enclosure's maintenance, clean their tank at least once a week. You hold wash your hands also before and after handling your pet to avoid salmonella and other kinds of infectious disease. Proper humidity is also a must specially when your pet is shedding. When you see your veiled chameleons to be very active and alert, got clear eyes, have healthy skin and eats regularly then your pet is totally in good health. However, watch properly for any signs of illness like runny stools, loss of appetite and many others. These things may brought your pet into serious conflict. If so, contact a reptile veterinarian as soon as possible.
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