Jackson chameleons are amazing, unique animals. The three horns on their head make them easy to recognize and are the reason many chameleon keepers want them.
However, Jackson chameleons, along with all species of chameleons, are not suitable for beginners. They are highly sensitive animals and their care requirements must be met at all times. It doesn’t take much for something to go wrong and kill your chameleon. You need YEARS of HANDS ON experience with a lot of different species before getting a chameleon. Also take your time and do as much research as you possibly can.
Basic Facts:
Size: 9 – 13 inches long
Life span: 8 – 10 years
Temper: Easily stressed or irritated, don’t like to be touched or held
How to sex Jackson’s chameleon
Males have three long horns, one above each eye and one on their nose. Females will have very tiny horns in the same spots or none at all. Their coloring does not very based on gender.
Care
Lighting, Heating, Humidity
Jackson’s Chameleons are a diurnal species meaning they are most active in the day. That being said, they do require a basking light and UVB.
Their basking spot should be no warmer than 85 degrees Fahrenheit and and their ambient temperature should be 68 – 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
The enclosure must be well lit during the day and completely dark at night. If needed feel free to add some LED lights to brighten up your enclosure.
Providing proper lighting is crucial to your chameleon’s well-being. Without it they will not be able to absorb nutrients causing them to quickly become sick.
That being said, NEVER use red, blue, or any colored lights ( even if branded for reptiles ) around your chameleon or any reptile. This can cause vision damage and blindness.
I recommend using the Zilla mini dome fixture. https://www.amazon.com/Zilla-Reptile-Habitat-Lighting-Terrarium/dp/B009GHI32K/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=zilla+mini+dome&qid=1693180084&sr=8-2
Along with the Zilla 25 watt day white bulb. https://a.co/d/iSHUHVL
For UVB i recommend using the Zilla slimline tropical T8 UVB https://a.co/d/4wqO7aI
The UVB bulb will need to be changed every six months. Even though it will still produce light it will no longer produce D3 which is essential for your chameleons health.
Humidity
Jackson’s Chameleons are a tropical species and thrive in the jungles of Kenya and Hawaii. That being said their enclosure needs to be 60% – 70% humidity throughout the day. However, their enclosure needs to have good ventelattion, so frequent misting will neccassery. Always dechlorinate any water you use in the enclosure.
Despite needing good airflow, screen enclosures will dry out too quickly which will cause dehydration and illness. I recommend using a PVC enclosure with a screen top.
Enclosure Size and Set Up
Chameleons are arboreal reptiles meaning they spend their entire lives in the high up in the trees. The 2x2x4 foot Zen Habitats enclosure is a perfect size for a Jackson’s Chameleon. Although bigger and taller is always better if you have the space.
2x2x4 Zen Habitats Enclosure: https://www.zenhabitats.com/products/2-x2-x4-meridian-pvc-panel-reptile-enclosurehttps://www.zenhabitats.com/products/2-x2-x4-meridian-pvc-panel-reptile-enclosure
As previously mentioned, chameleons live in the trees. When setting up your enclosure you need to provide lots of climbing space. I recommend using a mix of thin branches and vines that your chameleon can easily get their feet around.
The branches need to be located through out the entire enclosure to provide lots of climbing opertuneties.
When it comes to putting plants in the enclosure it’s best to provide a fully bioactive enclosure with live plants. This will give your a chameleon a much more natural and stimulating environment which help keep their stress levels down and keep them healthy.
Before putting any plants in the enclosure, make sure that they are non toxic and safe for reptiles. Also thoroughly wash the plants to get off any pesticides and insect eggs.
Make sure the enclosure is fully set up and the plants have had a couple moths to grow in and become fully established before getting a chameleon.
Diet
Jacksons Chameleons are insectivores meaning they live off insects.
They’re diet should consist of a variety of insects so they can absorb as much nutrients as possible.
I recommend feeding a mix of horn worms, silk worms, dubia roaches, crickets, and on occasion, wax worms. Due to the hard exoskeleton, stay away from meal worms and super worms. Chameleons are sensitive and will have a difficult time digesting them which can cause impaction in they’re stomach.
All feeder insects must be fed at least eight hours before be given to your chameleon. I recommend feeding the insects a variety of fruits and veggies. You can also use organic baby food and put a few drops in the insects container. Avoid spinach, broccoli, and all citrus fruits.
Always make sure that the insects are being kept in a clean container with good air flow. Also provide something for the insect to climb on such as cut up paper towel rolls. This will prevent the insect from crawling on each other and keep them alive longer. Remove any dead insects and old food daily to prevent illnesses and bacteria from being ingested. Doing so will help prevent your chameleon from getting sick.
Feeding
When it comes to feeding your Jacksons Chameleon, adults should about three insects the size of the space between the chameleons eyes every other day. And juveniles ( ages 0 – 4 months ) should be eating till they’re full daily. This will very depending on the individual.
All feeder insects should be dusted in calcium powder or multi vitamin powder directly before being fed to your chameleon.
The insects should be coated in a multi vitamin containing D3 twice a month. For every other feeding the insects should be coated with a calcium powder that does not contain D3.
Feeding your chameleon from tongs or from your hand is great option because it helps them get more comfortable with you. However, if they won’t take food directly from you, you can place a feeding cup on the wall of the enclosure.
It’s best to not have the insects loose in the enclosure because most insects will burrow into the soil where the chameleon will not be able to catch them.
Cost and Where to Buy
Now you may be wondering where you should get a Jacksons Chameleon and how much they cost. Do to the low demand for Jacksons they only cost around $100 – $150 dollars.
As far as purchasing your chameleon NEVER buy from a pet store whether it’s a small individually owned store or a large chain store. The animals you see at pet stores are either from wholesales ( a mass production of animals that are kept inhumanely ) or their wild-caught. Either way, the animal is likely to have healthy problems such as parasites and other illnesses. Even though it’s tempting to “save” the animals, in reality you’re jut supporting mass breeding, and neglect.
It’s best to purchase from a reputable breeder. I personally recommend buying from West Coast Chameleon Brothers. They are wonderful breeders who prioritize the health and well being of their chameleons.
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