MV for free ranging Juvenile?

[Kaianuanu]

I was just wondering what you guys thought about using an MV on a free range for a 3 month old panther? This would not be a 24/7 free range. This would me more of a "mini free range" in the corner of the living room that I'd just let him chill on when I'm home, and observe him on. Also, I would be sure to have the MV bulb far enough away to produce appropriate temps for the little guy. Also, do you think handling him like this on a daily basis to move him between his cage and the FR would be too stressful for him. Right now, he is terrified of me. Also, even though he is tiny, I have him in a 2x2x4 with lots of foliage and vines. My mini FR would probably be much less elaborate than his cage. Probably like a smaller ficus, maybe two with a couple vines wrapped around/draped over them.

 

[Riktor Scale]

I'm not the most knowledgeable here on the forums but from what I have seen most have some kind of vine going from the enclosure to free range and letting the chams travel themselves. If your 3 month does not seem to get stressed when you move him you should be fine. Not sure if moving him that much at that young of an age might be an issue though. This might help you.

Baby chameleons should be kept in smaller enclosures in order to properly meet their daily needs. In an appropriately
sized cage, they will have an easier time finding food, water and staying warm. We keep the bottom of the cage
clean and free of any substrate. Standing water or waste should be cleaned out on a regular basis in order to avoid
potential bacterial growth. The following table will help you choose the appropriate size cage for you chameleon:
Age / Reptarium™ / Aluminum Screen Cage
0-4 months / 22 gallon - 38 gallon / 16”x16”x29”
5-12 months / 38 gallon+ / 18”x18”x36”+
12 months + / 100 gallon+ / 24”x24”x48 +


Again you said mini FR, which I think he could chill on for a while when you get home, kid of like taking him outside for sun. I do know that if you used a smaller area/enclsure/FR and the Powersun(MV type bulb) you should have it 3.3ft above you FR area.

How long have you had him?