Eliot Chameleons

Buy Elliot’s Chameleon online.

Elliot’s Chameleons (Trioceros ellioti) are a fascinating, underappreciated montane species native to Eastern Africa. They’re hardy, live-bearing, and surprisingly adaptable—making them a compelling option for breeders and keepers who want something unique but manageable. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

🦎 Species Snapshot: Elliot’s Chameleon (Trioceros ellioti)

They’re one of the few chameleon species that give birth to live young, which simplifies breeding logistics and reduces incubation risk2.

🎨 Coloration & Sexual Dimorphism

• Color Range: Green, gray, brown, orange—often with subtle striping or throat grooves
• Males: Slightly smaller, more angular heads
• Females: Larger-bodied, especially during gestation

Coloration varies widely even within local populations, making them visually diverse and morphologically interesting.

🏡 Enclosure & Setup

• Size: 18x18x36 in minimum for adults
• Lighting: T5 HO UVB + gentle basking bulb
• Temps:
  • Basking: ~82–85°F (28–29°C)
  • Ambient: ~70–75°F (21–24°C)
  • Night: ~60–65°F (15–18°C)
• Humidity: 70–90%; mist 2–3x daily or use foggers
• Plants: Dense foliage—Ficus, Schefflera, Pothos, Ferns

They thrive in cooler, montane-style setups with high humidity and visual isolation.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

• Staples: Gut-loaded crickets, roaches, BSFL, silkworms
• Treats: Waxworms, hornworms (sparingly)
• Supplements:
  • Calcium (no D3): 3x/week
  • Multivitamin with D3: 2x/month
  • Bee pollen: every feeding

Feed daily, adjusting prey size to match head width. Juveniles are fragile and require careful hydration and feeding.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

• Personality: Mild, less high-strung than larger chameleons
• Handling: Minimal—observe rather than interact
• Socialization: Best housed solo; females may cohabitate if raised together, but caution is advised
• Buy Elliot’s Chameleon online