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At Tim’s Reptiles, we’re always excited to showcase unique and colourful reptiles, and the veiled chameleon is no exception. Known for their striking colours and ability to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, these reptiles make fascinating pets for those interested in their unique beauty and complex care needs.
Natural Habitat
Native to the mountainous regions of Yemen and Saudi Arabia, veiled chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus) have adapted to diverse environments, from lush valleys to arid regions. One standout feature is the high, helmet-like casque on top of their heads, which adds to their dramatic appearance and helps channel water to their mouths.
Colour and Camouflage
Veiled chameleons are famous for their ability to change colours, which is much more than a camouflage trick. These colour shifts can reveal their moods, intentions, or even health. Shades of green, blue, yellow, and brown are commonly seen. Their colour displays can intensify based on mood, stress, or during the mating season.
Habitat and Care
In the wild, veiled chameleons are arboreal, living in trees and shrubs, so they need a vertically-oriented habitat in captivity. To mimic their natural environment, provide a tall enclosure with plenty of climbing branches, live plants, and both basking and cooler areas to allow temperature regulation. Veiled chameleons also need a well-balanced diet, typically consisting of gut-loaded insects like crickets, mealworms. Dust all insects with Calcifly calcium supplement. Make sure to provide a UVB lamp.
Hydration and Humidity
Unlike many reptiles, chameleons won’t drink from water bowls, but instead will drink from water droplets on leaves. Mist your chameleon’s cage with water two times per day to allow it to drink water droplets off the plants in its enclosure.
Is a Veiled Chameleon Right for You?
Veiled chameleons can be a bit more delicate to care for compared to other reptiles, therefore they are more suitable for more experienced keepers who are willing to invest in the correct setup. Veiled chameleons are very rewarding pets and fascinating reptiles to keep and are well worth the money and time required to care for them
Contact Tim’s Reptiles if you’re interested in learning more.
Tim’s WhatsApp number
082 399 0612
Timothy Zedi
Tim Zedi is a seasoned reptile enthusiast with over 25 years of experience in keeping and breeding a wide variety of reptiles. Tim was the former chairman of the West Rand Herpetological Association and volunteered at the Transvaal Snake Park.Tim has been instrumental in creating knowledge in the reptile community. He is a regular contributor to Practical Reptile Keeping magazine, where he shares his expertise and insights. Through his work, Tim has become a respected figure in the herpetology field, dedicated to educating others and promoting responsible reptile care.