If you're considering keeping a veiled chameleon as a pet, let's talk about its average lifespan. Unfortunately, most veiled chameleons in captivity do not survive the last two years due to improper care. In this article, we will start with a brief overview of the Veiled Chameleon. We then discuss how long they live in captivity and in the wild.
Finally, if you have a veiled chameleon as a pet, we explain what influences its useful life and how you can extend it.
Content
Index
What is a veiled chameleon?
Veiled chameleons are one of 160 species of chameleons. They are commonly found in coastal plains, mountains, and high deserts in Yemen and Saudi Arabia.
This chameleon gets its name from the veil on its head, which helps it survive the hot and harsh climate of these climates. In addition to maintaining freshness, dewdrops can collect on the veil and drip into the mouth, keeping it hydrated.
Although chameleons are relatively small, this specimen is one of the largest chameleons. For example, they can grow to be between 18 and 20 inches long, depending on the sex. Males can sometimes grow up to 24 inches long.
Additionally, this chameleon has a varied diet ranging from insects to dark leafy greens. You can even enjoy vegetables and fruits from time to time.
In general, veiled chameleons are calm and collected. They will make excellent pets, but prefer to be left alone. They become stressed and possibly aggressive if handled too much.
How long does a veiled chameleon live in the wild?
Many different factors affect the lifespan of a veiled chameleon in the wild. Their lifespan can be shorter or longer, depending on the genus. For example, a female veiled chameleon in the wild has a lifespan of about two to four years. On the other hand, a male veiled chameleon in the wild has an average lifespan of around three to five years.
How long do veiled chameleons live in captivity?
in prison,veiled chameleonshave a longer shelf life. This is because they receive adequate and constant care. As a pet, a veiled chameleon doesn't have to worry about predators or changing weather conditions.
A captive female veiled chameleon has an average lifespan of up to five years. On the other hand, as a pet, a male veiled chameleon can have an average lifespan of up to eight years.
Watch this video: How long do veiled chameleons live?
What can affect the lifespan of veiled chameleons?
As mentioned above, many factors can affect the lifespan of your Veiled Chameleon. Let's talk about some of them.
Gender
First, your gender can affect your life expectancy. Female veiled chameleons live shorter lives than males, whether in captivity or in the wild.
This is because the females produce eggs and carry the babies. It drains a lot of energy and makes them age faster. Therefore, they have a shorter shelf life.
However, a captive female may have a slightly longer life than normal if she does not have young. There are female veiled chameleons that live as pets for up to eight years. So it's not impossible.
Careful
The type of care a veiled chameleon receives also affects its lifespan.
For example, veiled chameleons in the wild need to take care of their environment. Although they have many places to hide, climb, and roam, there are predators.
Also, the weather is unpredictable. For example, when there is a drought, they don't get the liquid they need and they get sick.
Additionally, they may have an inconsistent diet. Veiled chameleons do not travel much. So if they don't find any bugs for a day, they won't eat anything.
On the other hand, captive veiled chameleons need proper care. For example, they need a constant diet and hydration, as well as adequate housing.
So, let's discuss some ways to help your veiled chameleon live as long as possible.
Tips to Help Your Veiled Chameleon Live as Long as Possible
Unfortunately, veiled chameleons are not that easy to care for. They have specific needs that need to be met, or they may become stressed or ill. Here are some tips on how to give your veiled chameleon the best possible care to keep it thriving.
proper life
Veiled chameleons are arboreal, which means they tend to climb trees and plants. So they would like an enclosure where they can climb.
A cage at least 40 cm high is ideal. However, the best size is at least 24 x 24 x 48 inches. You can then add branches, vines, and other plants to help your veiled chameleon climb to the top of his enclosure.
They also need a cage that has a screen around it to ensure proper ventilation. Don't buy a plastic or glass tank because they won't have the air they need and it will make them stressed and sick.
They also need moisture and mist to stay hydrated several times a day. The temperature in your enclosure should be between 72 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and no lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Also, give them a spot with at least 95 degrees Fahrenheit sun for about 12 hours a day.
Diet
Also, you need to provide your veiled chameleon with a steady diet. The diet is determined by the age of the Veiled Chameleon. When they are young, they eat a lot of crickets and other insects every day. As they become adolescents and adults, they eat less.
However, they still need plenty of protein, calcium, and vitamin D to grow and develop well.
Feeding should be done at the same time each day so your veiled chameleon knows when to get his food. Also, be sure to give them plenty of time to warm up between feedings so they can fully digest their previous meal.
Finally, only place enough food in your enclosure to consume within five minutes per meal.
Learn more about the diet of a veiled chameleon here.
diseases
Veiled chameleons are quite hardy as they are reptiles. However, that doesn't mean they can't get sick and you shouldn't take them to the vet.
You should take your veiled chameleon to the vet at least once a year for an annual checkup, just as you would your dog or cat.
Veiled chameleons can become stressed and sick if they are not provided with proper housing, diet, or care.
For example, look for the following symptoms or behaviors:
- lack of exercise
- loss of appetite
- Wound
- Darker skin colors (could be a sign of stress)
- foam at the mouth
- dark colored urine
- movie about eyes
- a blow to your body
- loose skin
If you think your veiled chameleon is sick or upset, call your vet. Care is the mother of the porcelain box.
Diploma
In general, veiled chameleons can be kept as pets for a long time. However, you need to make sure that you give them the best possible care.
Also, watch for signs of stress, anxiety, or illness. So you can have your reptilian friend for a while.
Learn more about chameleons here. You can also click hereto read our guide on how long other chameleon species live oHere you can find out how veiled chameleons get big.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases.