By Jackson’s Chameleon (Chamaeleo jacksonii xantholophus) is a unique and fascinating species native to the mountainous regions of Tanzania and Kenya. With its vibrant coloration, triceratops-like horns, and docile nature, these captivating lizards are a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts. This comprehensive care sheet and species profile will guide you through the essential aspects of caring for a Jackson’s Chameleon and help ensure their health and happiness.
Table of Contents
Overview
Common Name(s): Jackson’s Chameleon, Jackson’s Horned Chameleon, Yellow-crested Jackson’s Chameleon
Scientific Name: Chamaeleo jacksonii xantholophus
Natural Habitat: Mountain slopes in Tanzania, Kenya, and invasive populations in the Hawaiian Islands
Adult Size: 7-10 inches (males), 7-8 inches (females)
Average Lifespan: Up to 9 years (males), 4-6 years (females)
Diet: Insectivorous
Housing: 18 x 18 x 36 inches minimum, 60-80°F, 50-80% humidity
Experience level: Beginner
Origin and Distribution
Jackson’s Chameleons belong to the Trioceros subgenera and are found in three main types in the African wild. The Chamaeleo jacksonii jacksonii is native to the Nairobi area of Kenya, while the C.j. merumonta is only found in the Mount Meru region of Tanzania. The Yellow-crested Jackson’s Chameleon (C.j. xantholophus) originates from the Mount Kenya region of Kenya and is the most commonly found type in the United States pet trade.
These chameleons prefer habitats with abundant trees and rarely venture to the ground, except for mating or laying eggs. They are classified as “threatened” by CITES due to habitat destruction and illegal capture for the exotic pet trade.
Appearance and Behavior
Jackson’s Chameleons start their life as brown lizards. At around five months old, they develop their bright green coloration, with males exhibiting more vibrant yellow or blue markings. Their ability to change color depends on their temperature, mood, or intent, but they do not alter their colors for camouflage purposes.
Males are larger than females and sport three forward-facing horns on their heads, earning them the nickname “three-horned chameleon.” Females may also have three smaller brown horns. The triceratops-like horns and bright colors of the males make them more visually appealing than females.
These chameleons are generally docile and laid-back but prefer to live alone due to their solitary and territorial nature.
Size and Lifespan
Adult male Jackson’s Chameleons typically measure 8 to 10 inches in total length, while females are slightly smaller at 7 to 8 inches. The largest variety, C.j. xantholophus, can reach nearly a foot in total length.
Males tend to live longer than females, with an average lifespan of 8 to 10 years. Female Jackson’s Chameleons usually live for 4 to 6 years, with their shorter lifespans attributed to the physical demands of reproduction.
Temperament
Jackson’s Chameleons are generally calm and easygoing, but they are also solitary and territorial creatures. This means they are best housed individually, as cohabitation can lead to stress, illness, or death.
While it is possible to handle a Jackson’s Chameleon, doing so can cause them distress. As such, they are an ideal choice for those who prefer to observe rather than interact with their pets.
Housing Requirements
Enclosure Size and Type
A suitable enclosure for an adult Jackson’s Chameleon should be a minimum of 18 x 18 x 36 inches. However, providing a larger space, such as 24 x 24 x 48 inches, is recommended for long-term housing. The enclosure should be tall enough to accommodate trees and branches for climbing.
Screened enclosures or well-ventilated terrariums are best for housing Jackson’s Chameleons, as they offer proper airflow and humidity control.
Lighting
A full-spectrum UVA or UVB light source is essential for the health of a Jackson’s Chameleon. These lights help them produce vitamin D, which is crucial for preventing metabolic bone disease and metabolizing calcium for proper bone, muscle, and nervous system function.
Set the UV light on a timer to mimic daylight hours, typically between 10 and 12 hours per day. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for bulb replacement frequency, usually every six months.
If you live in a warm climate, you can also provide your chameleon with natural sunlight outdoors. However, be cautious of temperatures above 90°F, as these can be harmful to your chameleon.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintaining appropriate temperatures and humidity levels is crucial for the well-being of a Jackson’s Chameleon. During the day, aim for an ambient temperature between 70-80°F, with a separate basking area reaching a maximum of 85°F. Ceramic heating elements or heat lamps can be used to achieve these temperatures. Make sure to provide plenty of shade and cooler areas for your chameleon to retreat to.
At night, lower the enclosure temperature to around 60°F. If this is your home’s natural temperature, you can turn off the heat lamp overnight. Otherwise, adjust your heating element to provide less heat during nighttime hours.
Jackson’s Chameleons thrive in high daytime humidity levels of up to 100% and nighttime humidity around 30%. Use digital hygrometers to monitor humidity levels and mist the enclosure with an automatic misting system to maintain optimal conditions.
Substrate and Decoration
Jackson’s Chameleons don’t require a substrate, as they spend most of their time above ground. Paper towels, newspapers, or no substrate at all are suitable options. Avoid using wood chips or materials that could be mistaken for food and cause blockages if ingested.
Create a natural environment for your chameleon by filling the enclosure with sticks, branches, and non-toxic plants such as Ficus benjamina. This will provide ample climbing and hiding spaces for a happy and healthy chameleon.
Cleaning
Daily removal of waste, food, and dead insects is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy environment for your chameleon. Wipe down the enclosure with a chameleon-safe antibacterial cleaner and remove any pooling water.
Perform a deep clean of the enclosure once a week, replacing any lining material such as paper towels or newspapers. Clean plants and branches on a rotation to avoid stressing your chameleon.
Jackson’s Chameleon Care
Food and Water
A balanced diet is essential for a healthy Jackson’s Chameleon. As insectivores, their diet should consist of a variety of live gut-loaded insects like crickets, locusts, stick insects, flightless fruit flies, and small snails. Treat foods such as mealworms, waxworms, and butterworms can be offered occasionally but should be limited due to their high-fat content.
All prey items should be smaller than the gap between your chameleon’s eyes to prevent choking. Avoid feeding fireflies or wild-caught insects, as these can be toxic or carry parasites.
Proper hydration is crucial for a Jackson’s Chameleon’s health. While water bowls can be provided, chameleons are more likely to drink from a mister that mimics rainfall. Ensure the mister contains tap water, which provides essential minerals for your chameleon.
Handling and Taming
While Jackson’s Chameleons are solitary creatures that prefer their own environment, taming is essential for stress-free handling during enclosure cleaning and veterinary visits.
To tame your chameleon:
- Allow them to adjust to their new environment for a couple of weeks, feeding from a distance during this time.
- Begin hand-feeding insects, gradually getting closer to your chameleon until they accept food from your hand.
- Once they regularly eat from your hand, offer your hand as a perch and encourage them to climb onto you.
Remember to move slowly and avoid grabbing or forcibly removing your chameleon from their enclosure, as this can cause stress and injury.
Common Health Issues
Jackson’s Chameleons can suffer from several health issues, including dehydration, eye problems, intestinal parasites, metabolic bone disease, and respiratory infections. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper husbandry, and a balanced diet can help prevent these issues and ensure your chameleon’s overall health.
Breeding
Breeding Jackson’s Chameleons is relatively easy. At around 9 months to 1 year old, healthy chameleons are ready to breed. To facilitate breeding, introduce the female into the male’s enclosure and let them mate for up to three days. If the male seems disinterested, introduce another male or show him his mirror image to encourage mating.
These chameleons are ovoviviparous, meaning they incubate their young in a soft shell inside the mother. Gestation lasts between 7-9 months for the first brood, with subsequent broods born every three months due to the female’s ability to store sperm.
Choosing and Buying a Jackson’s Chameleon
Captive-bred Jackson’s Chameleons are available from reputable breeders, reptile expos, and pet stores, with prices ranging from $75 to $175 depending on age, sex, and lineage. Males are more sought-after due to their vibrant colors and longer lifespan.
When selecting a chameleon, look for bright, alert eyes and healthy green skin. After purchasing, take your new pet to a veterinarian for a check-up and parasite screening. With proper care and attention, your Jackson’s Chameleon will be a fascinating and rewarding addition to your home.