Some factors that affect the price of a chameleon are the breeder or pet store’s prices, the cost of the enclosure and its accessories, and the cost of keeping the animal well-fed and comfortable. Chameleons vary in price depending on breed, age, and the amount of profit the breeder or pet store wishes to make. Enclosures can cost just as much as the animal or more if the animal needs an especially large habitat. In addition, the price of a chameleon is affected by its food prices and general everyday maintenance, such as keeping the humidity in its enclosure high.
The price of a chameleon depends on its breed and age, and certain breeds, like panther chameleons, tend to cost more than some other breeds. In addition, older pet lizards tend to have higher price tags than newly hatched ones. The previous owner likely put a lot of effort into housing, training, and providing medical care for the chameleon, plus he or she might be giving the new owner all of the lizard’s housing accessories. Extras like this, some of which are hard to put a price on, increase the price of a chameleon.
Buying a chameleon is not as simple as choosing a favorite breed or color, then making the purchase. Some experts recommend setting up the enclosure and habitat before buying the lizard. This way, the pet experiences less stress from the move, without a stranger putting his or her hand into the enclosure to move plants and lightning. Enclosures come in various sizes and shapes, but larger chameleons need larger enclosures. It not unusual for a chameleon’s enclosure to cost as much or more than it did.
Once the enclosure is picked out, the owner needs to furnish it with accessories the new pet will like. Many owners give their chameleons real plants to climb on, plus fake, or real, vines and branches. Lighting is also important, but the power of the bulb should be taken into consideration. A bulb that is too bright might burn the plants or cause the animal stress. These accessories are usually inexpensive.
The price of a chameleon is also affected by its constant need for high humidity and the price of its food. All chameleons prefer warm environments, and most of them also like to have a lot of water in the air. Many chameleon owners use a spray bottle filled with warm water to mist the chameleon enclosure to keep the humidity up. In addition, chameleons can be fed worms, crickets, and flies, all of which can be caught near home or bought at a local pet store.