Dark colors. NEED HELP

[GillietheAmbilobe]

So, I just got my chameleons today, but I have a few problems. My ambilobe panther chameleon hasn't eaten yet and is displaying dark browns. Also, I havent seen him drink either. He is 5 months old. His humidity is at about 45-50 percent and his basking spot is at 83 degrees. Please help! He is very dear to me! Thanks.

 

[jpowell86]

Don't expect to see him drink or eat yet. You will have to give him time to settle in. I wouldn't even attempt feeding until Friday. Some chams come in and will instantly eat for you and some won't. This is just another example of how each chameleon has their own personalities. Misting the cage is a good thing, but even when chams settle in to their enclosure, they may still refuse to drink in front of you. Don't sweat that. You will need to pay attention to physical attributes that can point to dehydration and his urates. Other than that just let him settle in and be patient!

 

[jcarlsen]

What jpowell said is absolutely true. If he's anywhere near his basking spot, dark colors are completely normal. And that'll be the case even after you've had him for a long time.

Just give him time and space. Don't try to press him for handling. I know you see videos of people handling their chameleons, but do not rush it, trust me. It'll take a good deal of time and patience.

 

[GillietheAmbilobe]

I haven't attempted to hold him yet and am planning to start to tame him in about a week or two. Thanks!

 

[jpowell86]

I think instead of the word "tame", it should be replaced with "tolerated". A chameleon isn't going to be your best friend like a dog would be. When my chams let me hand feed them and they don't puff up defensively if I have to move them, that is not from a taming process, that is from tolerating me because long enough periods have passed where they no longer associate me as being a complete danger or nuisance. I'm not trying to be a bubble popper, just want to make sure you have realistic expectations of chameleon behavior. Hopefully you have received some chameleons with more care free personalities! Good luck!

 

[GillietheAmbilobe]

Also, he was raised on crickets. Would it be possible to switch him to Dubia roaches? And he fed free range, so would it be possible to switch him to cup, feeding? Thanks.

 

[jpowell86]

Both are possible and adding variety in his diet is a must!

 

[DaChameleonKing]

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