Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Which one would you recommend to a first time chameleon owner? I can't find much info on Jacksons, but from what I have read they seem less demanding..

how big would a cage have to be for a jacksons chameleon?

Actually, the opposite is generally true. Jax need a cooler more humid climate than veileds which can be harder and more expensive for beginners to set up. Also, many jax for sale are wildcaught, which means they can suffer more from stress, can have parasites and less obvious stress related disease than a veiled that has had proper care in captivity since it was hatched. You may hear more about health problems of veileds on forums, but most of this is because more newbies start off with them and get in trouble (and join forums). Temperment wise, jax are less aggressive than veileds, but it doesn't mean they are easier to handle. Veileds react to intruders and stress with more aggression, but jax tend to hide their problems and retreat instead. The stress is still there but often harder to see the effects of. Depending on the climate where you live and in your house, one may be easier for you to keep than the other. IMHO the cage size for either one should be as large as you can make it; at least 2x3x3 feet. A larger cage pays off, because you can create a range of temps and humidity, hold larger bushy plants, create humid hiding areas, a nice basking area, have room for more climbing routes, gives the cham more territory for it's personal space, more area to hunt and patrol, etc.

Excellent points. It's true that jacksons prefer cooler temps. But beyond that, I really think they thrive in climates where they can be kept outdoors full-time. I think that they have a requirement that's not being completely met when they are housed inside. That's not to say that they can't be kept inside. People have done it successfully, but I think it requires significantly more expertise than keeping a veiled or panther chameleon indoors. For that reason, I would classify veileds and panthers as good novice chameleons. I would also classify jacksons (subspecies xanatholophus) as a good choice for the novice keeper, but only if that keeper is able to house them outside in a moderate coastal climate. I don't find the other two jacksons subspecies to be for the novice keeper at all.

Spiddy

Off the subject, how did you get such a big picture to load?