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General Information About the Vieled Chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus)
The Veiled Chameleon is the most commonly bred and available species of chameleon. The popularity of this species is due to a number of factors; veiled chameleons are relatively hardy, large beautiful and prolific. Veiled Chameleons are native to Yemen and southern Saudi Arabia and reside in an amazing variety of different habitats. As such, this species is tolerant of temperatures and humidity extremes. Chameleons in general are considered a "high maintenance" reptile, and although the Veileds are among the easiest to care for, they still require careful attention to their husbandry.
Male Veiled Chameleons reaches a total body length of 12 to 19 inches within 12 months of age. They are highly variable in color, even within a single clutch of eggs, bold vertical body bands of primarily bright gold, green and blue mixed with yellow, orange or black. Bi-colored or tri-colored male possessing any of these colors are possible. A thinly built appearance in males is normal. Females reach 12 t 14 inches inside their first year and are light green with some mottled pattern of small white to gold body spots and a light blue dorsal crest as adults. They are more heavily bodied as adults. Both sexes are shy and tenacious.
Veiled Chameleons, as with all chameleons, are not "pets" in the traditional sense. They do not like being handled or played with, in fact these activities, taken in large measure, can stress the animal severely. Less handling is by far better for chameleons.
The Veiled Chameleon is an impressive and challenging reptile to keep. Although veileds are one of the hardiest chameleons to keep, it still requires rather specialized care. Anyone who is considering keeping them should seek and read as much information as possible. Do not purchase first, learn next. Learning what is needed first, then purchasing is the best way to go for both you and your animal.