Panther Chameleons are very popular in the pet trade. Their popularity may be due to their beautiful coloration and large size.

Panther Chameleons, like other varieties, may be aggressive towards other chameleons. Since they exhibit territorial behavior they are best housed alone, or if they must be kept together they should be housed in large enclosures. Males tend to be most aggressive to other males, and therefore two males should not be kept together. When compared to other chameleons they are about average as far as aggressive behavior. Also, like other chameleons handling should be kept to a minimum, as it tends to stress most individuals. For the same reason their enclosure should be in a quite place in the house with limited exposure to loud noises, people and pets. Some hobbyists recommend not using an enclosure with a reflective surface because many chameleons become stressed when they see their own reflection. This is why many keepers avoid using glass enclosures. Using a shade screen or other barrier may help to prevent stress. Like Veiled Chameleons, the Panther Chameleon is relatively hearty, and this may also explain their popularity in the pet trade.

The Panther Chameleon is a beautiful chameleon. Adult males will grow to a length of 12 to 17 inches and females from 7 to 9 inches. Their bodies are colored differently dependent on their sex and region in which they are found. Adult males range from bright turquoise and green with red & gold on the eyes to green and purple bands with an all red eye turret. Other males have up to six body colors with white streaks on the eyes, and some are all brown. Females tend to be black and orange. They can change colors very rapidly when handled, injured, or threatened.

The Panther Chameleon is native to the island of Madagascar. Panthers come in many different varieties, the four predominant ones being "Ambanja," which live near the town of Ambanja in northern Madagascar; "Rainbow," which is found mostly around the towns of Sambava and Diego Suarez; "Nosey Be Blue," which comes from the island of Nosy Be; and "Red," which are found around the cities of Maroantsetra and Tamatave. There are many other phases of Panthers throughout Madagascar, all having unique and beautiful colors.

For housing, use a vivarium measuring at least 1m x 60cm x 1m for an adult male or slightly smaller for a female. Furnish it with branches for climbing, but not too many, because they enjoy open areas and do not need hiding places. Panther Chameleons enjoy temperatures between 55 to 60 degrees at night and about 85 degrees during the day. Keep the humidity above 70% and provide a basking area with a temperature in the 90's. Most will drink water sprayed onto plants in the cage twice daily and eat once a day. They will eat locusts, crickets, waxworms, moths, tebo worms, flies, and giant mealworms. Large adults will also eat pinkies. Dust food with vitamin and mineral supplements.

As is the case with all Chameleons, humidity is needed to ensure their survival. There are several ways to provide the needed levels. A misting system seems to be one of the best methods. The misting system should be allowed to run for 10 minutes at a time spreading an equal amount of water on all the leaves. Misting systems, unlike drip systems also increase the overall humidity of the enclosure and usually do not require a collection spot like drip's do. Ultrasonic foggers also work miracles for keeping up the humidity as well as making the enclosure a great conversation piece. If chameleons do not get sufficient water for an adult Panther Chameleon it could possibly result in chronic low-level dehydration, kidney failure, and death. Watering a Panther Chameleon can also be done using a drip or rain system. Rain systems generally connect to your household plumbing and deliver dripping water throughout the animal's enclosure. Drip systems are generally made with a container of water, which sits above the enclosure. A tube runs from the container into the cage. Water flow from the container into the cage is adjusted via a valve.

There is currently no special breeding information in our databases for this animal. To submit breeding / propagation information that is specific to this animal please click here.