Panther Chameleon Care Sheet

Panther Chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) are one of the most colorful lizards on earth. Native to Madagascar, they are found in a variety of locales, each with distinct coloration. Males are the colorful ones; females are typically brown to pink. Adult males reach 12–18 inches in length, females 8–12 inches. Lifespan is typically 5–7 years with proper care.

Screen cages are highly recommended over glass for proper ventilation. Minimum size for an adult male is 24"W x 24"D x 48"H — bigger is always better. Juveniles can be kept in smaller cages (16"x16"x30") until 6 months. The enclosure should be filled with live plants (Pothos, Schefflera, Ficus) for cover and climbing. Avoid placing the cage near air vents, drafts, or heavy foot traffic.

Provide a basking spot of 85–90°F at the top of the enclosure. Ambient temperature should be 72–80°F during the day, dropping to 65–72°F at night. Use a basking bulb (incandescent or halogen) placed outside the top of the screen. Avoid hot rocks or under-tank heaters. Monitor temperatures with a digital thermometer.

UVB is essential for calcium metabolism and preventing Metabolic Bone Disease. Use a T5 HO 5.0 or 6% UVB bulb spanning 2/3 of the cage length. Replace every 6 months even if still producing visible light. Lights should be on a 12-hour cycle. Place the UVB bulb within 6–12 inches of the basking area.

Maintain 50–70% humidity during the day, 80–100% at night. Mist the enclosure 2–3 times daily for 2–3 minutes each session using a pressure sprayer or automated misting system. Chameleons drink water droplets from leaves — they rarely drink from standing water. A dripper can supplement misting. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent stagnant water.

Offer a variety of feeder insects: crickets, dubia roaches, hornworms, silkworms, superworms, and waxworms (as treats). Gut-load feeders 24 hours before offering with high-quality food (leafy greens, squash, fruit). Feed juveniles daily; adults every other day. Offer as many insects as the chameleon will eat in 10–15 minutes. Remove uneaten feeders from the enclosure.

Dust feeders with calcium without D3 at every feeding. Dust with calcium with D3 twice per month. Dust with a multivitamin (Repashy or similar) twice per month. Use a separate container to dust feeders and add them to the cage. Oversupplementation can be as harmful as deficiency — follow schedules carefully.

Panther Chameleons are best observed rather than heavily handled. Limit handling to brief, calm sessions. Signs of good health: bright colors (males), healthy weight, active hunting, regular drinking. Warning signs: sunken eyes, hollow sides, dark coloration for extended periods, lethargy. Find a reptile vet experienced with chameleons before you need one.