Facts About the Baby Pardalis Chameleon

The paradalis chameleon is also known as the panther chameleon. The term paradalis comes from the lizard's Latin name, Chameleo paradalis. Paradalis chameleons are brightly colored lizards that are native to the island nation of Madagascar. Baby paradalis chameleons are unique creatures that are common in the pet trade, but they do not look the same as adults.

  1. Coloration

    • Baby paradalis chameleons do not exhibit the same brilliant coloration as adults. While adults can be bright blue, red or even combinations of red, blue, green and pink, baby paradalis chameleons are usually a dusty grayish pink or blue, depending on their subspecies.

    Gender

    • Female paradalis chameleons are duller in color than their vibrant male counterparts. Baby paradalis chameleons don't display their adult colors until they are approximately 6 months old, but they can still be sexed before then. The male baby paradalis chameleon will have a bulge on the underside of its tail where it meets its body.

    Size

    • While adult paradalis chameleons can reach lengths of up to 1.5 feet, newborn paradalis chameleons can fit on a penny and are on average half an inch long. Because they are so small, they may have a difficult time finding their food if they are placed in an enclosure that is too large. Hatchling paradalis chameleons should be kept in an enclosure no more than 1-by-1 foot. It should be no taller than 2 feet.

    Life Cycle

    • Chameleons are unique in the reptile world, laying eggs periodically with or without fertilization similar to chickens. Baby paradalis chameleons become mature adults at about 7 months of age, and can lay up to 30 eggs about three times per year. Baby paradalis chameleons can take up to a year to hatch from their eggs.