Chameleons are known for their distinctive appearance and behavior, making them fascinating creatures to observe and study. However, with over 160 species of chameleons, each with its own unique traits and characteristics, it can be difficult to determine which species is the best fit for you as a pet owner or simply as a subject of interest. In this article, we will take a closer look at several popular chameleon species, comparing their size, lifespan, habitat, and care requirements.
Whether you are considering owning a chameleon as a pet, or simply want to learn more about these fascinating creatures, this article will provide a comprehensive comparison of different chameleons, helping you make an informed decision.
12 most common chameleons kept as a pet
- Veiled Chameleon (Chameleon calyptratus)
- Meller’s chameleon (Trioceros melleri)
- Panther Chameleon (Furcifer pardalis)
- Four-Horned Chameleon (Trioceros quadricornis)
- Oustalet’s Chameleon or Malagasy giant chameleonn (Furcifer oustaleti)
- Carpet Chameleon (Furcifer lateralis)
- Jackson’s Chameleon (Trioceros jacksonii)
- Fischer’s chameleon (Kinyongia fischeri)
- Flap-necked Chameleon (Chamaeleo dilepis)
- Pygmy Chameleon (Rhampholeon species)
- Helmeted chameleon (Trioceros hoehnelii)
- Parson’s chameleon (C. parsonii)
It’s important to note that while these species are commonly kept as pets, they have specific care requirements and can be challenging to care for. Before getting a chameleon, research their specific needs and ensure that you are able to provide them with proper care.
Are chameleons good pets for beginners?
It depends on the species of chameleon, but some species such as the Veiled Chameleon and the Jackson’s Chameleon are generally considered good pets for beginners due to their simple care needs and easy availability. However, proper research and knowledge on the specific species’ care requirements and behavior is crucial for keeping a healthy and happy pet.
| Species | Experience level |
|---|---|
| Veiled Chameleon | Beginner |
| Meller’s chameleon | Experienced |
| Panther Chameleon | Beginner |
| Four-Horned Chameleon | Experienced |
| Oustalet’s Chameleon | Intermediate |
| Carpet Chameleon | Intermediate |
| Jackson’s Chameleon | Intermediate |
| Fischer’s chameleon | Intermediate |
| Flap-necked Chameleon | Beginner |
| Pygmy Chameleon | Experienced |
| Helmeted chameleon | Intermediate |
| Parson’s | Intermediate |
How long does a pet chameleon live?
On average, pet chameleons can live for 5 to 10 years with proper care. Some species may live longer, while others may have a shorter lifespan. The lifespan of a pet chameleon depends on factors such as species, diet, living conditions, and overall health. It’s important for owners to provide proper care and a healthy environment for their pet chameleon to help ensure a long and happy life.
Below is a life expectancy comparison of the most popular pet chameleons:
| Species | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Veiled Chameleon (Chameleon calyptratus) | 5 years |
| Meller’s chameleon (Trioceros melleri) | 3-5 years |
| Panther Chameleon (Furcifer pardalis) | 5-7 years |
| Four-Horned Chameleon (Trioceros quadricornis) | 5-7 years |
| Oustalet’s Chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti) | 8-10 years |
| Carpet Chameleon (Furcifer lateralis) | 2 years |
| Jackson’s Chameleon (Trioceros jacksonii) | 4-6 years |
| Fischer’s chameleon (Kinyongia fischeri) | 2-3 years in the wild, up to 15 in captivity |
| Flap-necked Chameleon (Chamaeleo dilepis) | 6+ years in captivity |
| Pygmy Chameleon (Rhampholeon species) | 2 – 4+ Years in captivity |
| Helmeted chameleon (Trioceros hoehnelii) | 5-8 years |
| Parson’s | 8-9 years |
What is the average cost of a chameleon?
On average, a chameleon will cost anywhere from $30 to $550. The price range depends on the species and age of the chameleon.
The most popular breed of chameleon is the Veiled Chameleon, which typically costs between $50 to $90. Panther Chameleons are also popular and can cost up to $300 or more depending on their coloration and size. Baby veiled chameleons tend to be cheaper than adult panther chameleons, with prices ranging from around $60 to $200.
When buying a pet chameleon, it’s important to factor in other costs such as setup and ongoing care expenses. Setting up an appropriate habitat for your chameleon can cost anywhere from $50-$150 depending on what type of enclosure you choose. Additionally, you’ll need to provide food, water, lighting, heating, and other supplies which can add up over time.
| Species | Price |
|---|---|
| Veiled | $50+ |
| Meller’s | $150+ |
| Panther | $300 |
| Four-Horned | $100+ |
| Oustalet’s Chameleon | $100+ |
| Carpet | $200+ |
| Jackson’s | $35+ |
| Fischer’s | $100+ |
| Flap-Necked | $50 |
| Pygmy | $50+ |
| Helmeted | $50+ |
| Parson’s | $1,000+ |
How big do chameleons get?
Chameleons come in a variety of sizes, from the tiny Brookesia micra which is one of the world’s smallest reptiles at just over 1 cm long, to the Malagasy giant chameleon which can reach up to 68.5 cm in length. The most popular pet chameleons typically range between 12 and 24 inches, with males usually growing larger than females.
When they hatch, chameleons are 4 inches long and will continue to grow until they reach adulthood. Adult male chameleons typically grow between 15 and 20 inches nose to tail, while adult female chameleons are usually smaller at around 12-14 inches. This of course varies depending on the species.
Below is an overview of the average size and weight of the most popular pet chameleons:
Chameleon size & weight chart
| Chameleon type | Males Size (in/cm) | Males Weight (oz/g) | Females Size (in/cm) | Females Weight (oz/g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veiled | 15-24 in 38-60 cm | 3-6 oz 85-170 g | 10-14 in 25-35 cm | 3-4 oz 85-113 g |
| Meller’s | 24-30 in 60-76 cm | 12-18 oz 340-510 g | 20-25 in 50-36.5 cm | 10-14 oz 283-396 g |
| Panther | 15-22 in 38-55 cm | 5.7-7.5 oz 160-212 g | 12-17 in 30-43 cm | 4-5 oz 113-141 g |
| Four-Horned | 9-13 in 22-33 cm | 3.5-5.3 oz 99-150 g | 7-11 in 17-28 cm | 2.9-4 oz 82-113 g |
| Oustalet’s | 20-27 in 50-68 cm | 14-17 oz 396-480 g | 10-12 in 25-30 cm | 9-15 oz 255-425 g |
| Carpet | 13-22 in 33-55 cm | 3-5 oz 85-170 g | 10-14 in 25-35 cm | 2.9-3.2 oz 82-90 g |
| Jackson’s | 6-9 in 15-22 cm | 1.2-1.3 oz 31-36 g | 10-14 in 25-35 cm | 0.8-1.2 oz 22-31 g |
| Fischer’s | 8-9.5 in 20-24 cm | 0.9-1 oz 25-28 g | 6-7.5 in 15-19 cm | 0.7-0.9 oz 19-25 g |
| Flap-Necked | 12-14 in 30-35 cm | 3.6-5.5 oz 102-155 g | 10-13 in 25-33 cm | 3-4.9 oz 85-138 g |
| Pygmy | 3-3.5 in 7-8.5 cm | 0.5-0.7 oz 14-19 g | 2.9-3.2 in 7-8.1 cm | 0.3-0.5 oz 8.5-14 g |
| Helmeted | 9-10 in 22-25 cm | 4-5 oz 113-140 g | 8.5-9.5 in 21-24 cm | 3-4 oz 85-113 g |
| Parson’s | 26-27.5 in 68-70cm | 22.9-24.6 oz 650-700 g | 25.1-26 in 64-68 cm | 21-22.9 oz 600-650 g |
More about the most popular chameleons
Veiled chameleon
Veiled Chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus) are a popular pet species, particularly among first-time owners. They are widely available in pet stores and can often be purchased for as little as $50. Their low cost, combined with their simple care requirements, makes them an ideal pet for beginners.
Despite their ease of care, veiled chameleons are not as fond of handling as other species. As long as their basic needs are met, they thrive in captivity.
Originating from Yemen and Saudi Arabia, veiled chameleons get their common name from the large “casque” on their heads, which is larger in males than in females. Although they are not as colorful as other chameleon species, they are still beautiful with a green base color and vertical stripes of yellow, brown, or pale blue.
Meller’s chameleon
The Trioceros melleri, also known as the Meller’s Chameleon, is a large species of lizard native to the East African countries of Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. They are considered the largest chameleons outside Madagascar, reaching up to two feet in length, and are known to eat not only insects but also small birds in the wild.
The Meller’s Chameleon is also known as the Giant One-Horned Chameleon, due to its size and single, small horn on the tip of its snout. These lizards are characterized by dark spots on a green and yellow pattern with vertical bars.
However, despite their impressive size, Meller’s Chameleons are not very resistant to stress or improper care conditions, making them difficult to care for and best left to experienced reptile keepers.
Panther chameleon
The Panther Chameleon (Furcifer pardalis) is one of the most sought-after pet chameleon species due to its stunning coloration, ease of care, and friendly demeanor. These vibrant lizards can be quite pricey, with prices ranging from $300 for adults to $500 for particularly vivid individuals.
The Panther Chameleon is well-known for its variable and eye-catching color patterns, making it one of the most colorful chameleon species. Their colors can range from green, yellow, and neon blue to many other shades, and they often have a stripe along their side. Males typically have ridges along each side of the head and are larger in size compared to females, but both genders are considered to be large lizards.
Caring for a Panther Chameleon is relatively simple, with basic needs that are easy to meet. They are also among the most tolerant of handling and interaction, making them an ideal pet for a beginner who wants to have a close relationship with their pet. If you are looking for a beautiful and low-maintenance pet chameleon, the Panther Chameleon is definitely worth considering.
Four-Horned Chameleon
The Four-Horned Chameleon (Trioceros quadricornis) belongs to the same genus as the Jackson’s Chameleon and they share similar features. Both have a uniform greenish-yellow color with lighter markings that range from blue to purple.
However, the Four-Horned Chameleon grows larger than the Jackson’s by a few inches and it has four horns on its head, instead of three. The horns on the Four-Horned Chameleon are not as large as those on the Jackson’s.
These chameleons are native to the mountainous rainforests of Cameroon and they require a moist and cool environment with temperatures not exceeding 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This sensitivity to temperature and humidity makes caring for them as pets difficult, especially for those without experience.
Carpet Chameleon
The Carpet Chameleon, also known as Furcifer lateralis, is a vibrant species of Panther Chameleon native to Madagascar. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, rainforests, and high altitudes.
Although they are larger than the Pygmy Chameleons, they are still considered a small species compared to other pet chameleons.
Carpet Chameleons are known for their spectacular coloration, with a mix of yellow, orange, red, blue, green, and purple, as well as dark patterns and spots on their sides.
While they are more affordable than other chameleon species, owning a Carpet Chameleon still requires a financial investment, with a cost that can reach up to $200.
Jackson’s Chameleon
The Jackson’s Chameleon (Trioceros jacksonii), also known as the Three-Horned Chameleon, is native to Kenya and Tanzania in Eastern Africa. It is a small species, recognizable by the three large horns on the head of male individuals.
This species is widely available in pet stores due to its popularity, often costing less than $100. Its compact size and distinctive horns make it a favorite among pet enthusiasts.
In terms of color, the Jackson’s Chameleon is more straightforward compared to other chameleons, primarily featuring a solid green hue with dark brown or green markings.
Fischer’s Chameleon
The Fischer’s Chameleons (Kinyongia fischeri ssp.) are an exceptional species of chameleons found in the Nguu mountain ranges in Tanzania. These lizards are known for their lengthy tails and are sometimes referred to as Monkey-Tailed Chameleons. Males also possess two long horns, earning them the moniker Western Usambara Two-Horned Chameleon. The coloring of the Fischer’s Chameleons can vary from a dark greenish-brown to a bright lime green.
Flap-Necked Chameleon
The Flap-Necked Chameleon (Chamaeleo dilepis) is a suitable choice for those new to keeping chameleons, hailing from Southern Africa. These lizards are of manageable size and their care needs are straightforward as they do not require excessive humidity levels.
Aside from their distinctive neck flaps, Flap-Necked Chameleons possess the signature appearance of a chameleon with a small crest, elongated tail, and typically green coloring. Some individuals may display brown or orange patterns.
As long as the keeper conducts proper research, these chameleons can make great pets for beginners.
Pygmy Chameleon
Pygmy Chameleons, which belong to the genus Rhampholeon and are also referred to as African Leaf Chameleons, come in several species.
Unlike many other chameleons, Pygmy Chameleons are small, with a maximum length of just three inches, hence the name “Pygmy.” They are also some of the most adorable pets on the list.
Another difference is their tail length, as Pygmies have short tails instead of the long, prehensile tails seen in many chameleons. These tails are not necessary for their life in the leaf litter.
There are various species of Pygmy Chameleons available, with most costing less than $200.
Read more about the pygmy chameleons here.
Helmeted Chameleon
The Trioceros hoehnelii, commonly referred to as the Helmeted Chameleon, is native to Eastern Africa. This species of chameleon is distinguishable by the single horn on the nose of both males and females. The Helmeted Chameleon is considered to be of medium to small size when compared to other chameleons, with an adult measuring approximately 10 inches (25 cm) from head to tail, and weighing between 100-150 grams. They have claw-like feet that assist them in climbing trees by gripping onto twigs and branches. However, it is important to note that the Helmeted Chameleon is not a low-maintenance pet and requires a warm, humid environment that can be challenging to create and maintain, with costs that may add up.
Read more about the helmeted chameleon here.
Parson’s Chameleon
The Parson’s Chameleon (Calumma parsoni) is a standout species in the world of chameleons due to their massive size. These reptiles can grow up to 70cm, making them the largest of all chameleons. Caring for a Parson’s Chameleon requires a large reptile enclosure due to their size, but is otherwise similar to caring for other chameleon species.
While not immediately distinguishable in appearance, Parson’s Chameleons have captivating colors that set them apart. Their hues are incredibly variable and can range from green, blue, white, yellow, and brown, often with striking dark diagonal stripes on their sides. Some individuals have a nearly solid white appearance with green stripes.
Due to their striking colors, Parson’s Chameleons are highly sought after by pet owners, but come with a hefty price tag. These lizards can cost upwards of $1,000, partly due to the difficulty of breeding them – eggs from this species may not hatch until 18 months after being laid.
What is the largest breed of chameleon?
The Parson’s chameleon is the largest species of chameleons, native to the rainforests of Eastern and Northern Madagascar. It can reach a length of up to 27 inches.
What is the smallest reptile on the planet?
The Brookesia nana, also known as the nano-chameleon, is the smallest species of chameleons and the smallest reptile found on Earth. It is only about 0.5-1 inch in size, small enough to fit comfortably on the tip of a finger.