Chameleons are fascinating reptiles that are able to change colors and blend into their surroundings. Their unique appearance and behaviors make them a popular pet choice. However, chameleon owners may notice black spots appearing on their pet’s skin which can be alarming.
Black spots can appear for various reasons. While some causes are harmless, others may require medical treatment. It’s important for owners to understand the potential reasons for black spots so they can properly care for their chameleon.
Common Causes of Black Spots in Chameleons
Here are some of the most frequent explanations for a chameleon developing black spots:
Stress
Stress is one of the most common triggers for black spots in chameleons. Chameleons are highly sensitive creatures and can easily become stressed by changes in their environment. Introducing them to a new enclosure bringing them home for the first time or placing their enclosure in a high traffic area can induce stress.
When stressed, chameleons will develop black markings on their skin These dark patterns serve as a visual signal to others that they are not feeling comfortable The good news is that if stress is the cause, the spots should disappear as the chameleon settles in and adapts to its new habitat. Relocating the enclosure to a quieter space can help alleviate stress.
Burns
Chameleons love basking under heat lamps and soaking up UV rays. However, if a basking branch is positioned too close to the heat lamp, the chameleon risks getting burned. Chameleons climbing near the top screen of the enclosure may also become burned.
A fresh burn on a chameleon requires immediate veterinary care. The wound needs to be evaluated and dead tissue may need to be removed to prevent infection. With proper treatment, burn-related black spots should heal. Adjusting the heat lamp height can help avoid future burns.
Abrasions
Chameleons are active climbers and will scale branches, vines, and any decor in their enclosures. All of this movement can lead to scratches and abrasions on their skin. The skin damage will show up as black bruise-like spots.
As long as the chameleon is acting normally, abrasion-related spots are not a major concern and will heal on their own. Providing safe, smooth climbing accessories can help prevent abrasions.
Mite Infestation
Mites are tiny external parasites that can infest reptiles and feed on their blood. The mites can transfer between reptiles and hide out in the enclosure. When they bite and feed at night, they leave behind black dots on the skin.
The best solution for eliminating mites is thoroughly sterilizing the entire enclosure with hot water and disinfectants. Any wood decor should be baked in the oven at a low temp to kill mites. Check the chameleon’s skin and use a Q-tip to remove any mites. Monitor for reinfestation.
Shedding
Chameleons routinely shed their skin as they grow. During the shedding process, their colors will appear dull and their skin will flake off over a period of a few hours to a few days. Sometimes old skin sticks around longer than it should, which shows up as black spots.
If shedding takes longer than 3 days, it likely indicates insufficient humidity in the enclosure. Increase misting to provide moisture to help the old skin fully come off.
Cricket Bites
Crickets make up a significant portion of a chameleon’s diet. However, crickets will defend themselves and may successfully bite a chameleon when being eaten. This can result in small wounds that appear as black spots. Cricket bites are generally not serious.
Fungal Infection
Skin fungal infections are common in chameleons, especially if humidity levels are too high. They appear as fuzzy growths on the skin and can spread between chameleons. A fungus-related black spot requires antifungal treatment from a vet. Isolate the infected chameleon immediately.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
While many causes of black spots are harmless, some require medical intervention. Schedule an appointment with an exotic vet if:
- The spots appeared suddenly or have changed/spread rapidly
- There are signs of an open wound or infection
- Your chameleon seems lethargic or ill
- The spots don’t fade within a week
- Your chameleon won’t eat or drink normally
Spotty skin along with other symptoms like wheezing, swollen eyes, or runny nose may indicate a respiratory infection requiring antibiotics.
It’s better to have a veterinarian evaluate any unusual spots just to be safe. If an underlying health issue is responsible, early treatment will provide the best outcome.
Preventing Black Spots
While black spots are often unavoidable, you can take some precautions to reduce their frequency:
- Allow time for your chameleon to settle into a new home before extensive handling to prevent stress
- Place the enclosure away from high traffic areas in your home
- Ensure the heat lamp is an appropriate distance from basking branches
- Provide smooth, non-abrasive climbing accessories and plants
- Perform regular enclosure cleanings to avoid mite infestations
- Maintain proper humidity and misting to support the shedding process
- Inspect crickets before feeding to remove potentially dangerous ones
- Monitor for signs of fungal growth and isolate sick chameleons immediately
Even with the best care, chameleons may occasionally develop harmless black spots. Pay attention to any changes and see a vet if you have any concerns about new markings. With attentive husbandry, black spots should resolve quickly so you can enjoy your colorful chameleon.
Rooting Out the Causes
Overwatering is like giving your plant a bath it never asked for. Soggy soil is a one-way ticket to black spot city.
Poor drainage isnt just an inconvenience; its an invitation for fungi to throw a fungal fiesta on your plants leaves.
Fungal infections are the party crashers in the plant world. Look for crusty textures or irregular shapes on leaves, which are telltale signs of unwanted fungal guests.
Humidity might be great for your skin, but for your plant, its like a sauna thats always on. High moisture levels can lead to a humidity trap, where fungi thrive and black spots spread.
Bacterial infections are the stealthy ninjas of plant diseases. Water-soaked lesions are their calling card, often leaving the leaves looking like theyve been through a storm.
The water dilemma is real. Too much, and bacteria are in heaven; too little, and your plant is in hell. Finding the right balance is key to keeping bacterial bullies at bay.
Keeping the Spots at Bay: Prevention Tactics
Water wisely. Overwatering is the nemesis of the Chameleon ZZ Plant, leading to black spots. Stick to the golden rule: only water when the top inch of soil is dry. This isnt just about quenching thirst; its about not drowning the roots.
What does it Mean when My Chameleon has Black Spots?
FAQ
What color is a sick chameleon?
A drastic change in color may also indicate that your pet chameleon is sick. Sick chameleon colors vary, but when a typically blue or green lizard suddenly starts to turn brown or black, they may be significantly ill.
How do you get rid of chameleon parasites?
If the vet finds parasites, they will prescribe an oral dewormer to take care of them. Dust feeder insects with a powdered probiotic like NutriBAC df or administer probiotic paste like Bene-Bac Plus at the same time to counteract the dewormer’s side effects.