Panther chameleons are a species of chameleon mainly found in the northeast part of Madagascar. They prefer to live in tropical forest biomes.
Panther chameleons have also been introduced to countries like Mauritius, Reunion, and the United States (Florida).
The species of chameleon was first discovered in 1829 and is known for its fork-shaped feet.
But are panther chameleons suitable as pets? Many people around the world are searching for the answer and here it is:
Are Panther Chameleons Suitable Pets For Households?
Panther chameleons have a wide range of habitats ranging from rainforests in the east to drier broken savannah in the northeast.
However, it is worth mentioning that their original habitats and forests are degraded by anthropogenic activities. Hence they are forced to live near roads, homes, and plantations.
Recently, these chameleons received a lot of attention from pet lovers, especially reptile lovers in the West. But are Panther chameleons good pets? You have to consider a few things before you find out the answer:
Temperament:
Panther chameleons are diurnal, slow-moving terrestrial reptiles, known for their docile and quiet nature. They have probably one of the fastest tongue movements.
This video is originally uploaded on Instagram by thereptilezoo.
Their mood is often reflected in their colours as these chameleons are too good at camouflaging. However, the ability to change colours is developed only when they become sexually mature (5-9 months age).
Their prehensile tails, moving eyes, and extremely long tongues add some uniqueness to their appearances.
Social Nature:
Panther chameleons are solitary by nature irrespective of their age and gender. Males tend to be larger and more aggressive than females.
When two males confront, the chameleons change their colour and inflate their bodies to show dominance over the other. If no one steps back, they often wrestle and the loser has to retreat.
However, it is not confirmed if females also act similarly when they come into contact with other females.
Venomous:
However, Panther chameleons are not poisonous, but they can have very powerful bites. Generally, these chameleons are very calm, but whenever they feel afraid or in danger, they can bite.
Before biting, these lizards may show you many signs, but you need experience to decode them. Hence, it is recommended that you keep your children away from these chameleons.
Invasiveness:
In many places in Florida, Panther chameleons are considered an invasive species. Hence, before you buy them as a pet, find out if these chameleons are legally allowed to be kept as pets in your locality.
Diet:
Panther chameleons are strictly carnivorous like Savannah monitor lizards and opportunistic hunters. They can wait for hours for prey and whenever the prey passes within their ranges, they swiftly use their tongue and grab the prey within the blink of an eye.
Small invertebrates such as insects, molluscs, spiders, cockroaches, small rodents, eggs, etc are their preferred diet.
Grooming and Exercise:
Panther chameleons need regular exercise to prevent obesity. To stay fit, chameleons require enough space to move around and plenty of branches to climb in the enclosure.
Like any other reptile, these chameleons periodically shed their skins. However, Panther chameleons don’t shed their skins in a single piece like snakes. If your pet chameleon faces difficulty while shedding, it indicates environmental or health issues.
Lifespan:
Panther chameleons can live up to 1.5-2 years in the wild and up to 5 years in captivity. Some studies reveal that males live longer than females but no concrete evidence is present for this statement yet.
Final Virdict:
You may keep the beautiful Panther chameleon as a pet for its unique appearance and colour-changing ability. But you have to remember that you cannot create emotional bonds with these chameleons like most other reptiles.
The relationship between you and your chameleon is similar to a giver and taker. Also, these chameleons have lower life expectancies compared to other similar chameleons.
Price:
While buying a Panther chameleon, you must ensure the chameleon is captive-bred and free from genetic diseases. A wild-caught chameleon may have tons of diseases that not only harm them but also your household and other pets.
A well-bred Panther chameleon may cost around $500-$800 (US dollars) in the USA. However, a male chameleon may cost more than a female chameleon due to its large size and longer life expectancy.
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