Veiled Chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus)

Species Overview

Veiled Chameleons are one of the most commonly kept pet chameleons. Known for their dramatic casque (helmet-like crest) and striking coloration, they are what most kids think of when they hear 'chameleon'. Veiled chameleons are native to Yemen and Saudi Arabia, and these hardy reptiles adapt well to captivity when provided with proper care. They are relatively tolerant of being handled, but can hiss and occasionally bite if not acclimated to being held. They are hardy and do not seem to stress as easily as other species. They are the best chameleon for beginners.

They change color for communication, mood, and temperature regulation, displaying shades of green, yellow, turquoise, and sometimes even orange or brown. Males are larger and generally more vividly colored than females.

Natural Habitat

Location: Mountainous plateaus and coastal plains of Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia
Environment: Warm and semi-arid, with occasional high humidity and seasonal rainfall
Activity: Diurnal (active during the day) and arboreal (tree-dwelling)

Size & Lifespan

Male Size: 18–24 inches (including the tail)
Female Size: 10–14 inches

Lifespan:

Males: 5–8 years
Females: 3–5 years (lifespan can be extended with careful management of egg production)

Temperament

Veiled Chameleons are bold and curious but can be defensive if scared or stressed. They hiss more than they bite, but they can still be intimidating until they are used to you. Once acclimated to handling, they are usually eager to come out of their enclosure with you and explore. They should still be handled sparingly to reduce stress.

Enclosure Requirements

Recommended Size: 24”x24”x48” vertical screen cage (larger is always better)
Ventilation: Screen enclosures are ideal for airflow and temperature regulation, but hybrid c
Climbing Space: Branches, vines, and hardy live plants (e.g., ficus, hibiscus, pothos)
Substrate: Bare bottom, paper towels, or a bioactive setup; avoid small, loose substrate particles

Lighting, Heat & Humidity

Basking Temp: 90–95°F
Ambient Temp: 75–85°F
Night Temp Drop: Down to 65–72°F is fine
UVB Lighting: Essential for 10–12 hours daily
Humidity: 50–70% during the day. 90% or higher at night
Hydration: Misting 2–3x/day, with a dripper system; Veileds often enjoy drinking from leaves

Diet & Feeding

Insects: Gut-loaded crickets, dubia roaches, silkworms
Occasional Treats: Hornworms, waxworms, mealworms (use sparingly)

Feeding Frequency: 6-8 insects daily for juveniles, every other day for adults

Bonus Treat: Veiled Chameleons are omnivorous and may occasionally eat leafy greens like collard, dandelion, and mustard greens. We have had veilds that ignore greens altogher, and we have a few who eat every single leaf of their pothos plants.

Supplements:

Calcium w/o D3 (Fluker's Repti Calcium is what we are using here)
Multivitamin: 2x/month

Conclusion

Veiled chameleons are the most hardy and bold common chameleon species. They are more forgiving of their temperature and humidity parameters than other chameleons, but effort should be taken to provide them a perfect home. They can be feisty if not handled frequently, but they hiss more than they bite. If you work with them, they will always calm down over time. They are an ideal beginner chameleon.

We are here to help you make sure your veiled chameleon is living its healthiest life - regardless of where you purchased it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all!