How to Care for a Desert Side-Striped Chameleon

A desert side-striped chameleon is a naturally wide creature that usually grows to about 4 inches in length. This chameleon needs very specific care to keep it healthy and strong, and you should not get a reptile as a pet unless you are serious about taking proper care of it. Before you bring your chameleon home, you should also line up a veterinarian that accepts exotic pets so you can take the chameleon to the vet for checkups and as needed.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Shredded coconut husks
  • Artificial plants
  • Full-spectrum UBV light
  • Thermometer
  • Mealworms
  • Crickets
  • Chameleon supplements
  • Water dripper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a 29 gallon aquarium. This is the minimum sized tank for your desert side-striped chameleon. Add shredded coconut husks to the bottom of the tank, as well as artificial plants and vines and climbing branches.

    • 2

      Place a full-spectrum UVB light over the tank to create a basking area for the lizard. Position the light so that it is about 18 inches away from where the side-striped chameleon will bask. Make sure the light shines directly onto the chameleon, not through the glass of the aquarium; glass will block the ultraviolet light. Keep the light on during the day for about 12 hours at a time.

    • 3

      Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the environment. Keep general temperature of the enclosure at around 70 to 75 degrees. The area just below the UV light should be hotter, around 85 degrees. Change the spotlight to a red bulb at night if you keep it on.

    • 4

      Feed your side-striped chameleon mealworms and crickets that have been dusted with a vitamin and mineral supplement made for chameleons; side-striped chameleons eat live food but supplements need to be added for proper nutrition. If the food is not eaten within an hour or two, remove it.

    • 5

      Provide a water dripper that is approved for chameleons. Your side-striped chameleon should always have access to fresh water. Two times per day, mist the vines and other areas of the aquarium with water for additional moisture. A bowl of standing water is not needed.