How to Set Up a Terrarium for a Chameleon

A terrarium is a self-contained habitat that caters to the needs of a specific animal. Chameleons require the consistent environment that a terrarium can provide. Learn how to properly set up a terrarium for a chameleon to ensure the comfort of your pet.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Purchase a terrarium for chameleons that offers ample ventilation. Cages made with mesh sides offer adequate air flow for chameleons. Ensure that the top fastens securely to keep the veiled chameleon safely inside the terrarium and keep other pets out of the enclosure.

2. Choose a substrate for the floor of the terrarium. A dry moss mixture works well to absorb moisture from the waste of the chameleon and from misted water.

3. Position branches in varying sizes within the terrarium. Chameleons like to climb and spend the majority of the day among the branches.

4. Add fake plants to the terrarium for aesthetic appeal or place a plant such as a ficus inside the terrarium for chameleons to nibble at and climb around.

5. Keep a clean food dish in the terrarium for crickets (the main food staple of many chameleons) meal worms or some types of plant life.

6. Light the terrarium with an incandescent basking light to provide necessary UVA and UVB rays and use an fluorescent light bulb for heat. Place a thermometer inside the terrarium to monitor the temperature. During the day, the optimal temperature for a chameleon terrarium is between 75 degrees and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night, this temperature drops when the lights are turned off to allow the chameleon to regulate its temperature.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep your chameleon terrarium in a secluded place away from activity and stress.
• Clean and sterilize all things that you introduce into the terrarium to kill unwanted bacteria and germs.