Senegal Chameleon (Chamaeleo Senegalensis)
Description:
Senegal Chameleons are grey to brown to green but, like all chameleons, they can change color. They will grow up to 6-8 inches long. Males will have broader tales than females and are more grayish-brown with triangular blotches while females tend to be a uniform green or brownish-green. These lizards can live up to 6-7 years if taken care of properly. They are great starter chameleons if you’ve never owned a chameleon but want one as a pet.
Habitat and Tank Requirements:
This species is native to Sub-Saharan West Africa.
These lizards do well with reptile carpet, shredded coconut husks, or reptile bark as a substrate. Be sure to put enough plants, rocks, and wood in the tank for your lizard to hide in and climb on. These lizards love to climb.
These chameleons do not need too much space and a group of 2 or 3 can inhabit a 15-20 gallon tank. Keep only one male per tank, as they may fight. A screen cover is recommended for your tank, as it allows better airflow and heating.
A comfortable temperature for these lizards is around 72-85º F during the day with a slight drop at night. LEDs or other low-wattage light bulbs work best for maintaining these temperatures. A small heat pad is recommended for basking.
Your tank should have a small, shallow bowl of water that is cleaned daily. This is for your lizard to drink from as well as wade in. Some lizards won’t drink from a bowl. In this case some sort of dropper is recommended. Misting the tank with a spray bottle twice a day is recommended.
Diet:
Senegal Chameleons will feed on small crickets, fruit flies, mealworms, wax worms, and any other insect small enough for them to ingest. They prefer live food. It is recommended that food be dusted with calcium to prevent bone softening.
Handling:
Allow your lizard time to become accustomed to its new home before handling them extensively. Handling them little by little over a period of time lets the animal get used to you and reduces stress.