Carpet Chameleon (Furcifer lateralis)
Species Overview
Carpet Chameleons are one of the most visually stunning and underrated chameleon species. Both males and females are beautiful, displaying brilliant shades of green, blue, pink, orange, and yellow. Their common name comes from the jeweled 'Turkish rug-like' or carpet pattern females display when they are gravid. And their latin name derives from the bright yellow lateral line - most visible when males are basking.
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Carpet chameleons are small, docile and shy, but they move with an almost frantic urgency when they see something that interests them - usually food or a potential mate. They are arguably the cutest chameleon.​
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Natural Habitat
Location: Eastern and central Madagascar
Environment: Humid forests, scrublands, and areas near human settlements
Activity: Diurnal (active during the day) and arboreal (tree/shrub-dwelling)
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Size & Lifespan
Male Size: 6–8 inches (including the tail)
Female Size: 5–7 inches
Lifespan:
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Males: 2–4 years
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Females: 2–3 years
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Temperament
Carpet Chameleons are very shy and secretive. They are very docile and will usually jump or drop to the enclosure floor when scared rather than show any aggression. Of all the chameleon species we keep, they seem to be the most stressed by handling. They are fascinating little chameleons and if you leave them to explore their environment, and their excitable personalities are very charming.
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Enclosure Requirements
Recommended Size: 18”x18”x36”h vertical screen or hybrid enclosure
Ventilation: Good airflow is important—screen or hybrid enclosures work well
Climbing Space: Provide a dense network of vines, twigs, and live plants (e.g., ficus, umbrella plants, pothos)
Substrate: Paper towels, reptile carpet, or a bioactive mix (avoid loose particulate substrates)
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Lighting, Heat & Humidity
Basking Temp: 80–85°F
Ambient Temp: 72–78°F
Night Temp Drop: 65–72°F
UVB Lighting: Essential for 10–12 hours daily
Humidity: 40 - 60% during the day. 90% or higher at night.
Hydration: Daily misting 2–3 times a day (automatic sprayers are helpful!).
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Diet & Feeding
Insects: Gut-loaded crickets, small dubia roaches, silkworms
Feeding Frequency: 6-8 insects daily for juveniles, every other day for adults
Due to their small size, they require appropriately sized feeder insects (no larger than the space between their eyes).
Supplements:​ Calcium w/o D3 (Fluker's Repti Calcium is what we are using here)​
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Conclusion
Carpet chameleons are an underrated and beautiful chameleon. They are small, beautiful and docile, yet they have a comically frantic energy to them when they get excited. Thy are shy and happiest when left alone, but they will usually warm up to your presence over time. Due to their size, they are happy in a smaller enclosure than most chameleons, and they love to explore - especially if they think no one is watching.
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We are here to help you make sure your carpet chameleon is living its healthiest life - regardless of where you purchased it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all!
