what cham is for me ?

[loismayH]

hey , names lois , im from the UK,
I have been doing loads of research on getting a chameleon for a while now last week i finally bought my exo terra terraruim, to start with.
I had been heading towards getting a type of panther chameleon maybe an ambilobe.... they are beautiful. I would like to be able to handle the chameleon if possible. by the research I have been doing some say they are the most handleable type and some say otherwise... i will obviously do more research before getting the chameleon itself but just wandering what people think?

 

[Hoj]

hello and welcome to the forum.
good on you for doing the reasearch first.
i can say from my experience that the most friendly chams have kept are definalty the panthers.
my nosy be gizmo is the chillest chameleon ever, within 5min on my getting home he is pawing at the door of his cage to get out for some adventure time with me.

 

[JonRich]

It's still hit or miss. But your best chance is with a Panther. Goodluck and let us know how it goes.

 

[Rodderz]

I am also in the UK and just over a week ago brought home a juvenile panther chameleon. I have previously kept a veiled chameleon who was a rather grumpy chap.

I have only recently been through the process of choosing a chameleon myself so might be able to give you a few tips. Probably the most commonly available chameleon species in the UK are Veiled and Panther chameleons. From what I understand these 2 species are generally considered the most "hardy" for captive husbandry. Im not sure how much you have researched chameleons, but as a general rule they are not that keen on being handled/petted too regularly. That said, many people report very friendly chameleons who appear not to mind being handled at all.

As I mentioned earlier my veiled chameleon was pretty grumpy when handled and used to do a fair amount of hissing, gaping, and even some head butting on the occasions when I had to handle him. My panther seems far more chilled out, although as I said I have not had him long and he is still young (4 months give or take).

I would therefor recommend a Panther chameleon for you. Try to find a reputable breeder or reptile dealer locally who can supply your chosen locale (if you have a preference) and I would also encourage you to insist on a captive bred animal. The drawbacks of animals taken from the wild are that they have had to endure a long trip from their country of origin, and have not necessarily been cared for brilliantly en route. Also, there is the risk of depleting wild stocks. Most good breeders/dealers wont sell you a cham younger than a few months old, but be sure to check anyway. Also, be sure to confirm sex and age of your animal. preloved dot co dot uk and reptile trader dot co dot uk give details of panther chameleons available from some private breeders around the UK.

Sadly I live on an Island between England and France so had limited scope in terms of choice. Therefore I am unsure of my panthers locale and can only make an educated guess at his age.

hope that helps

 

[loismayH]

thanks for all your replies very helpful ! x