The Amazing Chameleon!
Nutrition
Panther Chameleon fed crickets primarily but also wax worms, meal worms, and roaches – chameleons should have a varied diet.
Facts
Habitat
The panther chameleon is a species ofchameleon found in the eastern and northern parts of Madagascar in a tropical forest biome. Additionally, it has been introduced to Réunionand Mauritius. When kept in captivity it should be noted that panther chameleons require fresh flowing air, so the use of an open air screen cage is necessary. A glass aquarium should not be used as it restricts airflow and can cause respiratory infections in the animal.
The Panther Chameleon scientific name is Furcifer Pardalis. Male panther chameleons can grow up to 20 inches in length, with a typical length of around 17 in. Females are smaller, at about half the size. In a form of sexual dimorphism, males are more vibrantly colored than the females. The panther chameleon is very territorial. It spends the majority of its life in isolation, apart from mating sessions. When two males come into contact, they will change color and inflate their bodies, attempting to assert their dominance. Often these battles end at this stage, with the loser retreating, turning drab and dark colors. Occasionally, the displays result in physical combat if neither contender backs down. Panther chameleons reach sexual maturity at a minimum age of seven months. When gravid, or carrying eggs, females turn dark brown or black with orange striping to signify to males they have no intention of mating. The exact coloration and pattern of gravid females varies depending on the color phase of the chameleon. This provides a way to distinguish between locales. Females usually only live two to three years after laying eggs (between five and eight clutches) because of the stress put on their bodies. Females can lay between 10 and 40 eggs per clutch, depending on the food and nutrient consumption during the period of development. Eggs typically hatch in 240 days.