A Jackson’s chameleon temperament is hard to put into a box. They are known for their docile temperament, however, they do not enjoy being handled. Jackson’s chameleons are not aggressive but this does not mean they are not temperamental.
Jackson’s Chameleons have docile temperaments but I would not call them friendly. Though they are not aggressive or dangerous, I would not consider them friendly because they prefer to be left alone.
The temperament of a Jackson’s Chameleon depends mainly on the chameleon and the situation they are reacting to. Below, we explore some common scenarios Jackson’s Chameleons may be found in and explain their temperament. Read on for a more thorough answer!
Are Jackson’s Chameleons Friendly?
For some people, the word “friendly” when pertaining to pets pops up images of furry tails and cuddling companions. You will not find the same friendliness with a Jackson’s chameleon.
If you are searching for an animal friend that fits the above definition of “friendly,” the Jackson’s Chameleon is not the choice for you.While there are methods to developing a trusting relationship with your chameleon, they don’t like being held.
Instead, Jackson’s Chameleon will be much preferred by individuals who prefer a pet that they can simply observe.
A Jackson’s Chameleon is a quiet animal that doesn’t require constant interaction. This means this chameleon is content to sit in its cage as you perform your duties in life while being a beautiful display.
Jackson’s Chameleon Temperament When Being Held?
Jackson’s Chameleons are not an animal that enjoy being touched or handled for many reasons. One of these reasons is their instinctual nature.
Think about it – chameleons are acclaimed for their “color-changing” prowess. They turn into bright colors if they feel threatened to imitate poisonous animals or dull to blend into their environment.
Their reptile nature is crafted to keep themselves safe until they deem a creature a threat or a non-threat. You are no different than every other animal they may come across to them. Due to the overall lack of self-protection a chameleon possesses, it may get stressed if it isn’t in control of its own movements or feels threatened.
Things can be a bit different if you begin building a relationship of trust with your chameleon. However, Jackson’s chameleons will never be a pet that loves being held.
How to Handle a Jackson’s Chameleon
If you do plan on handling a Jackson’s Chameleon, remember that chameleons are fragile creatures overall. This means it is easy to break their ribs if mishandled or grabbed.
- You will want to get your chameleon accommodated to you and your hands. To do this, you will slowly gain the trust of your chameleon by associating your hand with great treats.
- You never want to grab a chameleon, not only due to their fragile frame but also due to the fragile sense of trust your chameleon may have with you.
- The reptile will view you either as a threat or not as a threat and if you forcibly pick them up, you will be a threat and break whatever trust you had been forming.
- Even if your chameleon is okay with being held, it isn’t recommended to hold them for long periods at a time.
As a general rule of thumb, just don’t attempt to grab or coerce your chameleon into doing something it doesn’t want to do. It will only make them scared of you and you risk giving them an injury.
Are Jackson’s Chameleons Friendly With Each Other?
Jackson’s Chameleons are not known to be friendly with other chameleons in captivity. While there is some sort of undefined social hierarchy found in wild numbers of Jackson’s Chameleons, it is not always peaceful even then.
When things get hard in social groups in the wild, Jackson’s Chameleons will put space between themselves and the other chameleon. They may even leave the social group to go to a new area altogether.
It is important to know that chameleon males are known for their territorial attitudes. So placing two males together is asking for trouble.
Which Pet Lizards Have a Better Temperament for Handling?
If you really want a reptile that you can handle frequently, then a Jackson’s Chameleon isn’t for you. However, the reptile world still has some great options for those looking for a more interactive pet. Here are three lizards that are better suited to being handled frequently.
Bearded Dragon
Bearded Dragons are toted as one of the easiest reptiles to take care of and tame. Unlike the Jackson’s Chameleon, Bearded Dragons are fond of the attention their owner may want to give them. They seem to enjoy handling from their owners and are always on the hunt for more attention or food.
Since they can also be a great reptile pet for children (with proper supervision), Bearded Dragons may be the right pet for you.
Like other species, though, housing two males together may promote hostility due to territorial behaviors.
Leopard Gecko
Docile in nature, leopaprd geckos make a great family pet for those who are looking for a lizard to handle. Even great with children under supervision, it is understandable from facts and looks to know why these are a popular choice.
With an overall adorable appearance and easy maintenance, the handling potential of a Leopard Gecko is the tip of what makes it a loved pet. The leopard gecko temperament is wonderful for most reptile owners.
Blue-Tongued Skink
These easily tamed creatures are loved by reptile owners around the globe due to their docile nature and gentle personalities. Another reptile that should be housed alone, the blue-tongued skink is an excellent pet for those who want to handle their reptiles regularly. If you do not handle them on a regular basis, the non-frequent handling may make your skink anxious.
With their blue tongue and scaly faces, it is no wonder they are beloved pets. Just be sure to house the reptiles alone, as males are known to be aggressive towards one another and also to other females at times. The blue-tongued skink’s temperament is great for most reptile owners.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a reptile you can handle, you should consider getting a different animal than the Jackson’s Chameleon. Though the Jackson’s chameleon temperament is mild, they do get anxious when being held.
While it is possible to get the animal used to smaller bouts of handling if you work patiently with them, they may never enjoy being held. If you are considering a Jackson’s Chameleon, be sure to do more research to provide them with the best habitat you can.