Basics: The Chameleon Cage
by Admin
Posted on 19-10-2023 03:45 PM
In this article we created a very effective cage to house a chameleon.
The steps presented can be used with any enclosure scheme. Just apply the basics to your chosen equipment and remember these two guiding principles. 1) gradients: heat, uvb, humidity, and exposure
2) levels: horizontal perching levels connected with diagonal and vertical climbing elements. Consider approaching the cage from the perspective of creating a beautiful environment where the chameleon is just one element. The cage should not only be functional for the chameleon with water, food, and each one of the four golden gradients. The cage should also be a work of beauty which you enjoy whether or not the chameleon is in view.
Before acquiring any new pet it is prudent to have their habitat set up properly so that they can settle in quickly into their new home and feel safe and comfortable. Chameleons have a reputation for being very difficult reptiles to keep, but their needs can be easily met by just providing a few specific things in their environment. There is no single right way to set up an enclosure but there are a few basics that must be met - how this is accomplished can vary depending on materials, personal preference, cage size, the specific animal, etc. When a chameleon's cage is set up correctly half the battle is done for you! the best way to succeed with chameleons is to provide them with everything they need in their enclosures. https://www.chameleonforums.com/
What the Chameleon Cage Should Look Like
The first thing you need to know about chameleons is what their home should look like. The cage shown here is what a chameleon cage should look like. Here is what is important with the cage that you need to replicate
there is an open area that has light, a basking area, and uvb
there is a dense planted area where the chameleon can hide and feel secure
there is a network of branches that allows the chameleon to access all the needed areas including heat, uvb, food, water, and cover
the network of branches is horizontally orientated. Vertical is fine for getting around, but chameleons generally like to rest horizontally.
Ideally, the xl zoo-med reptibreeze cage or at ‘least’ the medium arboreal vivexotic viva+ medium wooden vivaria will be ideal for one adult (do not house them together). Many like to start their young chameleons in smaller setups. This is fine – something like the vivexotic arboreal small or small/med reptibreeze is ideal. But i have found if you have lots of coverage, foliage, uv and heat options a young chameleon does perfectly fine in a large setup from the get-go. You should have lots of foilage, uv and basking options for your chameleon.
The terms “enclosure”, “cage”, and “terrarium” are often used interchangeably in the reptile-keeping world, but they do have some distinctions, especially when discussing habitats for chameleons. Enclosure is a general term that refers to any space or container used to house an animal. It doesn’t specify the type, materials, or design of the space. Cage usually refers to an enclosure made primarily of screen or mesh, allowing for maximum ventilation. In the context of chameleons, a cage often means a mesh or screen cage, designed specifically to meet the requirements of arboreal chameleons that need high airflow and some humidity control.,p>
Now that you understand why the cage is so vital, let’s consider your options: screen cages: these cages, made with mesh or screen sides, are a popular choice for panther chameleon enthusiasts. They offer excellent ventilation, which is crucial for maintaining humidity levels, and they allow for unobstructed views of your chameleon. Hybrid cages: hybrid cages combine the benefits of screen sides with other materials like glass or acrylic on the front. This configuration provides a clear viewing area while maintaining proper airflow. Custom-built cages: if you’re feeling crafty, you can opt to build a custom cage tailored to your chameleon’s needs.