Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi,

I'm looking to purchase a chameleon for my son. I owned lizards awhile ago and chameleons are new to both of us. I'll take on the husbandry requirements and feeding.

I wanted to purchase a Jackson, but I've seen Nosy Be Panthers advertised on the classified section. They are very beautiful!

Why are Nosy Be Panther's so much more money? Is it due to availability, colors, etc?

From what I've seen Jacksons are about $50-75 and Nosy Be's are $225+.

Does anyone have any suggestions??

Thanks,
Susan P.

Susan P.-

First off let me say you are starting off right, by doing your home work. I cant stress it enough the more you read the better off you will be and the better your chameleon experience will be. Jackson's are in the top three for beginner chameleons,

1. Veiled
2. Panther
3. Jackson

My self, I keep panthers and a pygmy species. Veileds are know for having a temper when they reach the ripe age of 6 months. Panthers are either very aggressive or very tame. Jackson's are very timid. Chameleons are not an animal that is meant to be held everyday for hours, if you are looking for something like that then get a breaded dragon, chameleons are more of a display animal.

Nosy Be pardalis are great, they are know for being very friendly and laid back. I see that Franco is selling some of his Nosy Be offspring in the classifieds, he is a great breeder, I have one of his male Sambava for my breeding group. Either chameleon you choose you will want a male. Panthers are more because people will pay more for them, they look nice and it all comes down to supply and demand. I think you will be better off with the panther then the Jackson. Check my website for some good info, pics, and links to other sites. Hope this helps!
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John @ Chameleon Paradise
1.1 Ambilobe Panthers
1.1 Nosy Be Panthers
1.1 Sambava Panthers
1.2 Rhampholeon uluguruensis

Hi!
I have both Jacksons and Panthers, their requirements are a little different, Jackson require a temp range of 70 to 80 day/60 to 70 night. Panthers need it a little hotter. Both will need daily water mistings. Jacksons are very timid, shy, and can be picky eaters, both animals will require at least 5 different types of food! I agree with the other post, these animals are not pets! their more of a living display! A chameleon will stress very easily! Stress = death!
One last thing, if you live in a warm climate you can keep these animals outside! Sunshine is a top requirement for these animals! Hope this helps!