
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Chamaeleo senegalensis
A chameleon of the moist savannas of West Africa, 20-30 cm long and usually olive brown. Unusually, the male is the smaller sex. It has long been among the African chameleons in trade.
Chamaeleo senegalensis is a chameleon widespread across tropical West Africa from Senegal to Cameroon, living in moist savanna and reaching 20 to 30 cm in total length. It is usually olive brown, and the male is normally the smaller sex. The type locality is Senegal, from which the specific name comes. It is oviparous. The IUCN Red List assesses it as Least Concern given its wide range and unknown population size, while noting that the pet trade may pose a threat. The Reptile Database flags a comparison with the closely related Chamaeleo laevigatus, so the identification of imported animals is worth confirming. Reliable published husbandry temperatures and humidity figures for this species are scarce, and none are quoted here.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Senegal Chameleon lives 4-6 years.
The Senegal Chameleon grows to 20-30cm.
Origin
Tropical West Africa including Senegal, the Gambia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Mali, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Sudan and South Sudan, in moist savanna
Lifespan
4-6 years
Size
20-30cm
Temperature
25〜32℃
Sources: Wikipedia (English) / Reptile Database
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Chamaeleo senegalensis Daudin, 1802
Synonyms: Chamaeleon subcroseus Merrem, 1820, Chamaeleo gymnocephalus Kaup, 1825, Chamaeleon leptopus Fitzinger, 1826
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Family Chamaeleonidae spp. has been listed on CITES Appendix II since February 4, 1977 (Species+). Because it is on Appendix II, registration as an international rare species is not required. This species is not included in the specific animals listed in the Schedule of the Enforcement Ordinance of the Animal Protection and Management Law.
Sources: CITES Appendices (Chamaeleonidae spp., Appendix II, effective 4 February 1977) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Humidity
40〜70%
Crickets, dubia roaches and other insects
Reliable published temperature and humidity figures for this species are scarce, so no numbers are given here. Its habitat is moist West African savanna with a distinct dry and wet season. Build a continuous gradient from a basking spot down to full shade, and adjust from measured readings and the animal's own behaviour.
As an arboreal chameleon reaching 30 cm, it needs a screen or glass enclosure with generous height. Add live plants and branches of varying diameter at different heights so it can choose its own temperature and light level. Avoid substrates that can catch on the tongue.
It is insectivorous; use crickets and dubia roaches as the staple, gut-loaded with vegetables and dusted with calcium. It drinks droplets, so hydration depends on regular misting or a dripper.
Like chameleons generally it should be kept singly, and males must never be housed together. Keep handling to a minimum and observe through the enclosure instead.
Listed on CITES Appendix II as Chamaeleonidae spp. since 4 February 1977, so no Japanese registration certificate is required. The IUCN assesses it as Least Concern but notes the pet trade as a possible threat, and wild-caught animals should always be checked for parasites and dehydration.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Senegal Chameleon is 4-6 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Senegal Chameleon typically reaches 20-30cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Senegal Chameleon feeds on: Crickets, dubia roaches and other insects. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Senegal Chameleon varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026