Jackson's Chameleon

Jackson's Chameleons (Trioceros jacksonii) are a medium-sized chameleon species native to the forests of East Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania. Males are immediately recognizable by their three prominent brown rostral horns resembling a Triceratops. Unlike most chameleons, Jackson's are ovoviviparous — females give birth to live young. They prefer cooler temperatures than many other chameleon species, making them well-suited to moderate climates. They can live 5–10 years with excellent care.

Jackson's Chameleons are generally calmer and more tolerant of observation than some other chameleon species. Males will display their horns and darken defensively when threatened. They are not heavy handling animals but some individuals become more tolerant over time. Best appreciated as stunning display animals.

Mist 2–3 times daily. Gut-load and dust feeders. Monitor temperatures (do not allow overheating). Observe color and posture daily. Check urates for hydration status.

Live insects are required: • Staple: dubia roaches, crickets, hornworms • Treats: waxworms, silkworms Gut-load all insects 24 hours before feeding. Dust with calcium (no D3) at every feeding and calcium+D3 + multivitamin twice monthly. Feed juveniles daily; adults every other day. ❌ AVOID: wild-caught insects, fireflies, overfeeding waxworms.

Adults require a minimum 24x24x48 inch fully screened enclosure. Provide dense live plantings (pothos, ficus, schefflera) for coverage. Include horizontal and vertical branches. Jackson's need excellent airflow — glass enclosures are not suitable.

Basking spot: 80°F–85°F (cooler than other chameleons). Ambient: 70°F–78°F. Cool zone: 65°F–72°F. Nighttime drops to 55°F–65°F are beneficial and recommended. Humidity: 50%–80%. Mist 2–3 times daily. Chameleons drink droplets from leaves. UVB (T5 HO 5.0 or 6%) is essential.

NJ Exotic Pets recommends Paws, Wings & Scales — Christopher F. Stancel, DVM. 125 Paterson Ave, Suite 1, Little Falls, NJ 07424. Phone: (973) 638-1180. Regular exotic vet check-ups essential.

Jackson's Chameleons require cooler temperatures than many reptiles — air conditioning may be required in summer. They are stress-sensitive and not handling-oriented pets. A long-term commitment of up to 10 years.