🦎 General Info

Panther Chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) are among the most colorful and visually stunning chameleon species in the world. Native to the coastal and lowland forests of Madagascar, they are renowned for their vivid reds, blues, greens, and oranges, which vary depending on locale, subspecies, and sex. Adult males are larger and more vibrantly colored than females, typically reaching 12–20 inches in total length, while females are smaller and less intensely colored.

Panther Chameleons are generally solitary, slow-moving, and can become accustomed to the presence of keepers, though they do not enjoy frequent handling. With proper care, they can live 5–8 years, with males often living longer due to lower reproductive stress.

Enclosure

  • Size - Panther Chameleons are arboreal and require tall, well-ventilated enclosures:

    • Adult males: Minimum 24” x 24” x 48”

    • Adult females: Minimum 18” x 18” x 36–48”

    • Juveniles: 16” x 16” x 30”

    • Height and ventilation are far more important than floor space.

  • Material

    • Screen enclosures are ideal for airflow and humidity balance

    • PVC/screen hybrid enclosures are also effective if ventilated properly

    • Avoid fully glass tanks, which can trap stagnant air and cause respiratory issues

  • Décor

    • Multiple climbing branches and vines

    • Dense foliage for security

    • Horizontal and vertical pathways for natural movement

    • Live plants: Pothos, Schefflera, Ficus, Hibiscus

  • Substrate

    • Can use bioactive soil or leaf litter on the floor to help retain humidity

    • Avoid loose gravel or sand to prevent ingestion and mold issues

Temperature & Lighting

  • Basking Spot: 85–90°F (males), 80–85°F (females)

  • Ambient Temperature: 75–80°F

  • Cool Side: 70–75°F

  • Night Temperature: 65–72°F (can briefly drop to 60°F)

  • Heating

    • Use a low-wattage halogen or LED basking bulb

    • Avoid heat mats or rocks, which can overheat or dry the enclosure

  • Lighting

    • UVB is essential for bone health and calcium absorption

    • T5 HO 5.0–6% UVB for standard enclosures, or 10–12% if distance from the basking branch is significant. Replace blub every 6 to 12 months according to manufacture

    • Provide a 12-hour day/night cycle

    • Full-spectrum lighting supports plant growth and encourages natural behavior

Humidity & Hydration

  • Humidity

    • Daytime: 50–60%

    • Nighttime: 80–100%

    • Regular misting or automated systems are necessary to maintain hydration as Panther Chameleons don’t drink from standing water

  • Hydration Methods/Maintaining Humidity

    • Automatic misting system 2–4 times daily

    • Dripper system to allow drinking from leaves

    • Optional hand misting for juveniles or supplemental hydration

    • Ensure the enclosure partially dries during the day to prevent bacterial growth.

Diet

  • Type: Insectivores.

  • Staple Foods

    • Dubia roaches

    • Crickets

    • Silkworms

    • Black soldier fly larvae

    • Hornworms (as a treat)

  • Occasional Treats

    • Superworms

    • Waxworms (sparingly)

    • Mealworms (sparingly)

  • Feeding Schedule

    • Juveniles: Daily

    • Adults: Every 2–3 days

  • Supplements

    • Calcium without D3: Every feeding

    • Calcium with D3: 2× per month

    • Reptile multivitamin: 2× per month

    • Gut-load all insects for optimal nutrition.

Behavior & Handling

  • Temperament: Panther Chameleons are solitary animals, they are calm and slow moving, often appearing to be curious about their surrounding however stress easily when handling making them better display animals.

  • Handling

    • Minimal handling recommended

    • Allow the chameleon to walk onto your hand rather than grabbing

    • Avoid sudden movements or excessive interaction

  • Enrichment

    • Dense foliage for hiding

    • Climbing branches and vines

    • Occasional rearrangement of décor

    • Supervised natural sunlight exposure

Health & Lifespan

  • Lifespan: 5–8 years, occasionally longer under excellent care

  • Common Health Issues

    • Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): from improper UVB or calcium

    • Dehydration: from insufficient misting or hydration

    • Respiratory infections: due to poor ventilation

    • Eye infections

    • Parasites

    • Stress-related illness due to frequent handling or poor husbandry

  • Signs of Illness

    • Lethargy or closed eyes during daytime

    • Gaping or wheezing

    • Refusal to eat

    • Sudden weight loss or color dullness

    • Discharge from eyes or mouth

  • Veterinary Care: Professional veterinary care should always be consulted when you think your pet may have an issue. Watch for signs of illness, catching an issue early on goes a long way..

Final Thoughts

Panther Chameleons are stunning, display-focused reptiles that require intermediate to advanced care. They thrive when provided tall, ventilated enclosures, proper UVB lighting, regular hydration, and a varied insect diet. While not suitable for frequent handling, they are fascinating to observe and can live long, healthy lives with careful husbandry.