Care Sheet – Forest Dragon

Scientific nameGonocephalus chamaeleontinusCommon NamesTree dragon, Forest dragon, Chameleon dragon, Blue eyed tree dragon, Angle headed dragon,Chameleon AngelheadHabitatMalaysia, Sumatra and neighbouring islandsRain forest, diurnalSizeApprox. 45 cmLife ExpectancyOver 10 yearsReproductionSeveral clutches with 7 eggs per year. Incubation period at 28°C about 70-80 days.TemperatureTemperature between 26-28°C, Natural temps. up to 30°C. Night turn temps. down to 20-22°C. good ventilation is required.Humidity80-95%LightingFor the correct UV I recommend "UV Lamps" or “the Arcadia D3 Compact". "Incandescent Lighting" (spot bulbs) with safety guards for the creation of local heat spots.

HousingTall vivarium minimum size 76 x 42 x 76 cmSubstrateForrest bark, Moss, Orchid bark, Coir etcCage FurnitureBranches and vines for climbing, some vertical branches various hiding places Planting is required (Ficus benjamina, F. pumila Scindapsus etc.) or artificial plants.FoodInsects (e.g. crickets, house crickets, grasshoppers, cockroaches, super mealworms, wax moths, etc.) Regular additions of "Calcium" and "vitamins" are necessary.WaterSpray heavily twice a day. A large flat water bowl as thy like to soak sometimes. I find it best to float some pieces of bark in the bowl otherwise they cannot see the still water. Dehydration is big thing with these; I find that they drink at every opportunity when the vivarium is spayed.

John Gamesby