Chamaelo dilepis
Flapneck chameleons are found throughout the forested regions and wooded savannahs of Southern Africa. They are named for the skin flap over the nape of their neck which they can raise to a 90° angle when agitated. These chameleons can be sexed from birth as the males have an extra appendage called a tarsal spur on their back heel. Flapneck’s are not compatible and only one can be kept per enclosure. The chameleon’s unique binocular eyes and method of capturing prey by projecting its long sticky tongue make it a fascinating pet to observe. Chameleons stress easily and do not like visual contact with other chameleons or excessive handling by humans.
Maximum size: 13”
Lighting: Full spectrum fluorescent
UVB bulbs and a basking light are required.
Temperature range: Day 75° to 85° F Night 65° to 75° F Basking 90° F
Food: Appropriate size crickets,
waxworms, moths, and flies coated in calcium and vitamin powder. Youngsters should be fed six to ten
2-week-old crickets once or twice a day as a guideline. These lizards grow rapidly and should be fed
as much as they will eat throughout their growth phase. It is equally important that their food is
coated with calcium/vitamin D3 supplement or they will quickly develop metabolic
bone disease without proper nutrition for their rapidly growing bones. Remove any uneaten crickets after feeding.
Water: These lizards will not drink
standing water from a bowl. A drip
system or a waterfall is needed to supply their water. It is important to mist
the plants and walls of the enclosure at least twice a day to supply water and
humidity. Watch for sunken eyes, which
are a sign of dehydration, indicating a need for more frequent misting.
Housing/Habitat: Specialized screened chameleon enclosures are best for these lizards. The substrate should be a dampened layer of soil and sand with orchid, repti-bark or cypress bark added to the surface to hold moisture. The pieces of bark in the top layer should be large enough to prevent ingestion when the lizard is feeding. The terrarium must be well planted with plenty of appropriately sized broad leave plants and branches for climbing and cover. Landscape to provide a basking area and the proper temperature gradient.