Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I want a really colorful chameleon, im experienced with reptiles but not with chameleons, any suggestions with a certain species ?

A colorful chameleon? Well, they ALL are, just in different ways. There are some other questions you should ask yourself that may help with the decision.

First, if this will be your first cham don't get an import or a tiny hatchling (3-4 months is a better bet). They can have tricky health issues that you won't necessarily detect until its too late. Find an experienced herp vet who has actually treated chams...do this before you need them because most likely you will at some point. The most common cbb species are veileds, panthers, jackson's, with a few other species scattered here and there. The husbandry information for these species is a bit more sophisticated and thorough too.

How much space do you have for a cham setup? The most commonly kept species need a screen cage setup of at MINIMUM of 2'x2'x4' oriented vertically. Ideally bigger is better. Don't expect to house more than 1 cham in a cage unless its the size of a small greenhouse. Too much territoriality and dominance to handle. Don't expect to keep a pair together either. They don't want to even see each other unless it is right at a breeding attempt.

What temps and humidity level can you realistically maintain in the room where you'll keep it? No sense struggling to offer a montane species the cool temps (especially at night) and high humidity and air flow in a climate that just won't allow it. If you plan to house it outdoors what's your climate range?

What colors do you like? Remember, a calm contented and healthy cham will not show screamingly bright color. It is only when they are upset, mad, scared, or territorial that their full spectrum comes out.

You can read and look at lots of species profiles on adcham.com. There are also lots of good articles on the chameleonnews.com site. They will give you a better idea about care and requirements for different species. Good luck!