Chameleons are growing in popularity as unique and exciting pet reptiles. With over 160 known chameleon species two of the most commonly kept as pets are the veiled chameleon and the panther chameleon.
If you’re trying to decide between these two popular chameleon species, read on to learn how they differ in terms of appearance, behavior, care requirements, and more
Appearance and Size
Veiled and panther chameleons have distinct appearances that set them apart visually.
Veiled Chameleons
- Light green body color with faint patterning on the sides. Their color may darken when sick or stressed.
- A crest on top of the head resembling a “veil” or “helmet”.
- Males can grow up to 24 inches long.
- Females reach about 14 inches in length.
- Males weigh 120-250 grams. Females are smaller at 85-180 grams.
Panther Chameleons
- Bright, vivid body colors like emerald green, turquoise, and blue-green. Yellow or white lips. Red or gold eyes.
- Very colorful overall with no crest on the head.
- Males reach around 21 inches long.
- Females grow up to 13 inches in length.
- Male panthers weigh 140-180 grams. Females are smaller at 60-100 grams.
So in terms of size, veiled chameleons tend to be slightly larger than panther chameleons, especially the males. Veiled chameleons also have a signature “helmet” crest that panther chameleons lack.
Behavior and Personality
Veiled and panther chameleons share some behavioral traits but also differ in their tendencies,
Similarities
- Both species are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and sleep at night.
- Neither species should attempt to brumate (hibernate) when kept as pets indoors. Appetite loss in winter is normal.
- Both can be territorial and aggressive, especially male chameleons housed together.
- Neither species enjoys excessive handling or holding. They prefer to be observed in their enclosure.
Differences
- Veiled chameleons tend to have more aggressive personalities, with more frequent hissing, mouth gaping, and biting when threatened.
- Panther chameleons are calmer and known for being more friendly and inquisitive when acclimated to captivity.
- Panther chameleons are very intelligent and often learn their keeper’s routine.
So if you’re looking for the most docile, handleable chameleon species, panther chameleons tend to make better pets in this regard. However, any chameleon can become accustomed to gentle handling when raised from a young age.
Lifespan and Health
Both veiled and panther chameleons can live 5-7 years in captivity when cared for properly. Some key health concerns:
- Metabolic bone disease from inadequate calcium or vitamin D3 intake
- Respiratory infections from low enclosure temperatures or humidity
- Calcium and vitamin A deficiencies from poor diet
Veiled chameleons are also prone to stress-related illnesses. Panthers may experience liver problems if fed too many fatty feeder insects.
With proper husbandry, lighting, nutrition, and healthy feeder insects, both species can live full, healthy lives as pets.
Enclosure Size and Setup
Veiled and panther chameleons require similar cage sizes and habitat setups:
- Minimum enclosure size of 24″ x 24″ x 36″ tall. More height is better.
- Screen cage for ample ventilation on all sides
- Daytime ambient temperature around 75-80°F
- Basking spot reaching 85-95°F
- Nighttime temperatures dropping to 65-75°F
- UVB lighting for 12-14 hours daily
- Plenty of climbing branches, fake vines, and live plants
The most important factor is giving them enough height for climbing, just like their natural arboreal habitat.
For both species, it’s best to start babies in adult-sized enclosures to save on upgrading costs later.
Diet and Nutrition
Veiled and panther chameleons have slightly different dietary needs.
Veiled Chameleons
- Insects like gut-loaded crickets, worms, roaches
- Also enjoy leafy greens like collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens
- Occasionally may eat fruits and veggies
They need a varied diet of both insects and vegetation.
Panther Chameleons
- Primarily insectivorous – eat crickets, roaches, worms, etc.
- Don’t typically eat fruit or greens
- Need more focus on gut loading feeder insects
Panthers have simpler dietary needs centered on insects. Be sure to provide calcium and multivitamin supplements as well.
Ease of Care
Both veiled and panther chameleons can make good beginner chameleon pets, but panthers are often recommended for new owners because:
- Their care requirements are slightly simpler.
- They readily feed on insects without fussy vegetable preferences.
- Their more docile temperaments and intelligence may be more forgiving.
However, veiled chameleons can also thrive for new owners who research proper husbandry and interact with them regularly and gently from a young age.
Availability and Affordability
Thanks to captive breeding programs, both veiled and panther chameleons are reasonably available:
- Veiled and panther chameleons can be purchased online or at local pet stores and reptile expos.
- Make sure to buy captive bred specimens, not wild caught.
- Veiled chameleons tend to cost $70-$150 USD.
- Panther chameleons range from $100-$350 USD depending on locale.
- Panthers are typically more expensive than veileds.
Be sure to buy from reputable breeders offering healthy animals.
Choosing Between Veiled vs Panther Chameleons
To recap the key differences:
- Panther chameleons have more vivid, varied coloring.
- Veiled chameleons get slightly larger.
- Panthers are usually more docile and friendly.
- Veileds have more specific dietary needs.
- Panthers may be simpler for beginners to keep.
- Veileds tend to be more affordable.
Think about your experience level, budget, aesthetic preferences, and desired handling ease. For example, panther chameleons may better suit kids due to their more easygoing nature.
Either species can thrive when set up properly and fed a nutritious diet. Whichever you choose, be sure to handle gently and positively socialize them often. With time and trust, you can develop a rewarding bond with your new veiled or panther chameleon friend.
Dwarf, Carpet, and Lesser Chameleons: The Smaller Chameleon Species to Consider
There are hundreds of species of chameleon from ones that are able to perch on the tip of your finger to ones that will take up your entire forearm. There are a number of very nice “finger-sized” chameleons that will be able to be housed in smaller cages or be able to stretch even further in a large cage. Luckily, these species are usually available as captive bred. Carpet Chameleons used to be available as wild caught and those individuals did not fare so well as a whole. But the captive hatched babies that are available now are strong and provide a great chameleon experience.
You are more likely to see these smaller species, especially Furcifer lateralis and F. minor, being kept in naturalistic solid side cages where they do very well. Although it is not necessary to keep them like this it is an experience that is enjoyable and adds another dimension to the chameleon keeping experience.
A Female Carpet Chameleon (Furcifer lateralis)
A male Natal Midlands Dwarf Chameleon (Bradypodion thamnobates)
A Male Lesser Chameleon (Fucifer minor)
Parson’s and Meller’s Chameleons: The Giant Chameleons
We have entered into an exciting period in the community where captive bred Parson’s and Meller’s Chameleons are available. These chameleons are no more difficult to take care of than other chameleons other than the space they need to live. These chameleons are impressive, but make sure you have the space necessary to keep them happy. Many people have these chameleons as their dream chameleon and they will certainly not disappoint! They are amazing! So, are they suitable as a first chameleon? That depends on you. Cost aside, if you are willing to do the research into their conditions and dedicate the space and money/time resources that is required then you do not need to graduate to them. In fact, if your heart is set on one of these species then it is not fair to that Veiled Chameleon for you to consider it a “practice chameleon”. If your heart is not set on one of these larger species I would suggest starting with a species that is, space-wise, easier to take care of.
A male Yellow-lipped Parson’s Chameleon (Calumma parsonii parsonii)
A Meller’s Chameleon (Trioceros melleri)
Which chameleon is best? | The differences between veiled and panther chameleons
FAQ
What’s the difference between a veiled chameleon and a panther chameleon?
The panther chameleon is similar to the veiled chameleon. It, however, requires higher humidity levels, which can be difficult to maintain while keeping airflow going.
What type of chameleon is the friendliest?
- Veiled Chameleon.
- Panther Chameleon.
- Jackson’s Chameleon.
- Oustalet’s Chameleon.
- Flap-Necked Chameleon.
Do veiled chameleons like to be held?
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Chameleons are not cuddly pets:They are solitary animals that prefer to be left alone and are not naturally inclined to interact with humans in the way that mammals like dogs or cats are.
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Handling can cause stress:Frequent or excessive handling can lead to stress in chameleons, which can negatively impact their health and well-being.
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Best observed, not handled:Chameleons are best kept as display animals, and owners should focus on providing them with a suitable environment and observing their behavior rather than trying to interact with them physically.
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Conditioning to tolerate handling:While chameleons may not enjoy being handled, they can be conditioned to tolerate it for necessary procedures like vet visits or cleaning their enclosure.
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Signs of stress:Pay attention to your chameleon’s body language, as signs of stress can include darkening of color, hiding, or becoming agitated when approached.
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Proper handling techniques:If you need to handle your chameleon, do so gently and avoid approaching from above, as this can be perceived as a threat.
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Focus on observation:Instead of trying to make your chameleon a “pet” in the traditional sense, focus on providing them with a stimulating and enriching environment where they can thrive.
What is the hardiest chameleon?
Veiled Chameleons: Very hardy; often “cranky” personality. Panther Chameleons: The most “mentor” supported species of chameleon. Jackson’s Chameleons: Generally mild tempered; require nighttime temperature drop.
Are veiled chameleons aggressive?
When it comes to their personality, they’re both shy, and they’re both aggressive. Veiled Chameleons and Panther Chameleons can become stressed easily and are both territorial. So, they may show aggression if they see their reflection or if they’re not quite used to you. Veiled Chameleons are more aggressive, hissing, and sometimes biting.
What is the difference between veiled chameleon and panther chameleon?
Believe it or not, Veiled Chameleons and Panther Chameleons have more similarities than you’d think. In fact, their differences are only slight when it comes to certain things, such as size and weight. So, let’s take a closer look at the Panther Chameleon vs. Veiled Chameleon.
Are veiled chameleons friendly?
Veiled chameleons have very distinct personalities, often they come across as grumpy and aggressive. Many are shy and some may be friendly. The good news is that they can be tamed, based on their own individual personality. Panther chameleons have their own personalities that can be outgoing, friendly, or shy.
Are panther chameleons friendly?
Panther chameleons tend to be friendlier and more outgoing than the Veiled chameleon, though both can be tamed with patience and both will learn to climb on your hand when you put it in their enclosure. Adult veiled chameleons will not enjoy being handled and are best when watched.
How big does a veiled chameleon get?
There isn’t much of a weight difference between the veiled and panther chameleons. A healthy male veiled chameleon can grow up to 24 inches (61cm) from its snout to the tip of its tail. Females are smaller and grow up to 14 inches (35cm). Females bodies tend to be thicker than the male.
How big do panther chameleons get?
Male panther chameleons can grow up to 21 inches (53cm) with females growing up to 13 inches (33cm). While the size of the veiled chameleon and panther chameleon is very similar, the panther chameleon tends to be slightly smaller. You will find that when a veiled chameleon is at rest, it is a light green with a faint pattern on the side.