Charlie (veiled male chameleon) opens mouth while basking?

[charlie2022]

Charlie has been opening his mouth recently while basking. We got a cold front in Florida, and the temperature is lower than normal. I'm wondering if it's because he is trying to consume more heat, or if it's something more serious. PLEASE give me any information/advice you may have. Here are some photos of him while he's doing it.

 

[Beman]

What are the temps at basking? They typically do this when they are far too hot. Especially if you are only seeing it while he is basking. If your seeing it randomly in the cage this can be a sign of a respiratory infection.

 

[Lindasjackson]

My Jackson’s does this occasionally as well. It usually means he’s too hot.

 

[Sonny13]

Also check your hydration with your little guy. The urate of the first pic looks pretty orange to me, meaning his hydration is on the poor side.

 

[charlie2022]

Also check your hydration with your little guy. The urate of the first pic looks pretty orange to me, meaning his hydration is on the poor side.

I noticed that as well, I fed him a hornworm and moved his dripper to a better side of plants. Thank you