The fastest-growing segment of the pet population today is -- drumroll, please! -- the reptile. And one of the most popular reptiles is the modest little chameleon, a lizard that changes colors to blend in with his surroundings (thanks to pigment-bearing cells called chromatophores, which contract or expand depending on the amount of light and humidity available). Designed by nature to look like a leaf on a tree, the chameleon uses his prehensile tail and bifurcated (two-part, with toes on each half) feet to balance on branches, waiting and watching (with his amazing swiveling eyes) for his next meal. Should a hapless insect wander into range, out will shoot his long, sticky tongue, and the bug is toast! Chameleons make great pets, but they need a lot of room -- some people let their pet chameleons live among their houseplants and have the run of the house! If this is where you choose to let your pet live, be sure to light the area with full-spectrum light. If you decide to keep your chameleon in a terrarium, choose one of the smaller species and be sure to do the following: - Make sure he has plenty of room to climb.
- Hang a drip bottle in the terrarium: the motion of the water will attract the chameleon.
- Put plenty of sphagnum moss beneath the bottle. It will stay damp and provide a comfortable refuge for your pet.
Ask the Expert Q: Why does my dog scratch his ears when he doesn't have fleas? A: Itching may have a number of causes, including internal or external parasites and infection. The only way to determine the cause is to see your veterinarian.
RESOURCES :
The Chameleon Handbook
Model: 0764112422
Author: Francois Le Berre, et al.
Barrons Educational Series
May 2000
Essential Care of Chameleons
Model: 188277051X
Author: Philippe De Vosjoli
Advanced Vivarium Systems
Oct 1999
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