Source Sustainability
Fair Choice
Does the harvest for wildlife trade
or captive breeding of this species
harm wild populations?
Some Cause for Concern
Panther Chameleons are locally very abundant and large numbers of wild individuals are collected for the pet trade. International trade of Panther Chameleons is carefully regulated, and current harvest levels are thought to be sustainable. If the demand for these chameleons increases, local populations could be at risk.
PetWatch Recommendation:
When possible, always buy a captive-bred animal as this will decrease the demand for wild-born individuals. In general, captive bred animals will also be healthier and live longer than wild-caught animals. Only acquire a pet that is from a reputable USDA-licensed breeder or dealer to ensure that you are not buying an illegally wild-caught and/or imported animal.
Invasion Threat
Fair Choice
Does the release or escape of this species into
the wild harm the environment and/or economy?
Some Cause for Concern
Panther Chameleons have established self-sustaining populations outside of their native range on the islands of Réunion and Mauritius. It is not known whether these populations have had any adverse effect on native and/or domesticated species.
PetWatch Recommendation:
Before obtaining a Panther Chameleon, check to make sure that it is legal to own one in your state of residence and check for permitting requirements. Always keep your pet chameleon inside a safe and secure enclosure. Never release a pet into the wild.
Animal Welfare
Worst Choice
Does harvest, captive breeding, transport, or
being kept as a pet harm individual animals?
Significant Cause for Concern
Chameleons are very difficult and costly to maintain in captivity and therefore are not good pets for beginners. Panther Chameleons require precise conditions and foods that mimic their natural rain forest environment. Providing the correct type of light (in the UV range) and dietary vitamins are the most significant challenges. Also, Panther Chameleons can be very aggressive, so they must be kept visually and physically separated from one another.
PetWatch Recommendation:
Before acquiring a pet chameleon, be sure to research its specific care requirements. Annual check ups and fecal analyses are recommended. Talk to your veterinarian about the proper diet and how to maintain a healthy weight for your pet. Because these animals can be carriers of disease (see Health Threat, below), acquire an animal only from a reputable USDA-licensed breeder/dealer.
Health Threat
Fair Choice
Does this animal pose a health risk to native
wildlife, humans, livestock and agriculture?
Some Cause for Concern
Like most captive reptiles, Chameleons are known carriers of Salmonella. If ingested by humans, Salmonella can cause vomiting and diarrhea; these symptoms are usually mild in healthy adults but can be fatal to infants and young children, or anyone with a compromised immune system. It is important to wash hands before and after handling an animal. Salmonella can be transmitted from exotic pets to any member of a household, even those who do not handle the pet directly.
PetWatch Recommendation:
Due to the potential for disease transmission to humans and other household pets, acquire a Panther Chameleon from a reputable USDA-licensed breeder/distributor. Be sure to ask for proof of a clean bill of health and that the animal has been checked by a certified veterinarian. Obtain a list of any medical treatments the animal has received.
