Pet Keen advocates for adopting before shopping. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here.
Are you looking to keep a large chameleon? The Parson’s chameleon is a good place to start. An adult Parson’s exceeds 60 cm in length and weighs up to 750 grams. The chameleon has a relaxed and friendly character, making it an ideal reptile pet.
But where can you get healthy Parson’s chameleons in the USA? Here is a 2024 breeder’s list on where to get one.
Parson’s Chameleon Breeders Near Me in 2024
It is crucial to choose Parson’s chameleon breeders who invest time, money, and effort into raising the species. It would help if you also worked with a trustworthy and knowledgeable breeder.
Here is a list of Parson’s chameleon breeders in 2024 to get you started.
1. Backwater Reptiles
Backwater Reptiles is a famous parson’s chameleon breeder that offers a live arrival guarantee. They have a large 3,000-square-foot breeding facility for other reptiles, including snakes, lizards, frogs, turtles, and tortoises.
2. FL Chams
FL Chams is a family-owned chameleon breeder with over 12 years of experience. Their chameleons are of high quality, whether captive-bred, wild-caught, or captive-hatched.
3. LLL Reptile
The LLL Reptile has 25 years in business, which means the breeder has experience in breeding. Their captive-bred Parson’s chameleons are healthy and well-raised.
4. Snakes at Sunset
Snakes at Sunset sells and delivers yellow LIP Parson’s chameleons collected in the field as babies. They prioritize the health and safety of the chameleon during shipping to guarantee live arrival.
How Much Does a Parson’s Chameleon Cost?
Expect to pay between $1,000 to $2,000 for a Parson’s chameleon. Yes, it is one of the most expensive chameleons.
This may be because the IUCN Red List has classified it as a Near Threat species. Human influence on Madagascar’s rainforests has led to the decline of these chameleons. In addition, the anthropogenic transfer from Madagascar to other countries has threatened the species’ population.
Currently, Madagascar is the main export country, while the USA is the main import country. This means that the number of Parson’s chameleons coming to the USA is limited, hence the expensive price tag.
The 6 Things to Ask a Parson’s Chameleon Breeder
1. Wild Caught vs Raised in Captivity
Ask your breeder whether they are selling you a wild-caught species or one raised in captivity. Why, you ask? It is because chameleons, including the large Parson’s chameleon, are easily stressed.
It turns out that changes in their natural habitat or captivity can elevate the chameleon’s stress levels. Besides, it is best to avoid wild-caught Parson’s since they may have health problems. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase a Parson’s raised in captivity.
2. Trustworthiness
Before making an actual purchase, ask the breeder how long they have been in the Parson’s breeding business. You can also ask if they have credentials and accomplishments and request to see them.
Check the breeder’s website/page to see whether they are knowledgeable about the Parson’s chameleon. Trustworthy breeders are well-informed about breeding and will have lots of detailed information about the reptiles.
3. Customer Testimonials
Good breeders receive positive customer reviews after purchase and will be more than ready to share this information. So why not ask them for proof of customer testimonials? Once you get a feel for how people perceive the breeder, you will be better positioned to choose whether or not to work with them.
4. Guarantees
Since you are purchasing a live reptile, it is best to ask the breeder whether they offer live guarantees. Parson’s chameleons are fragile during transport, and it would be a shame to pay for a dead animal upon arrival.
5. Shipping Information
Parson’s get stressed, particularly during shipping. Therefore, ask the breeder what measures they must ensure the chameleon is not overstressed during transit.
6. Customer Support Services
If you are a novice chameleon keeper, you need to ask the breeder about their support services after purchase.
The 4 Things to Know When Owning a Parson’s Chameleon
1. They Need Specialized Housing
The Parson’s chameleon lives on trees in the wild, and its feet have adapted to this lifestyle. This means that you have to simulate the pet’s natural environment in your home.
First, make sure you include several plants and trees. This will offer your pet a sense of security plus an opportunity to explore and hide. Second, the Parson’s needs a tall enclosure so that it has a more elevated vantage point.
Furthermore, the chameleon will need UVA/UVB lighting, humidity gauges, thermometers, and misters to keep the enclosure in the right habitable conditions.
2. Parson’s Eat Live Food
Parson’s feed on live gut-loaded insects. For this, you will need a supply of mealworms, waxworms, butterflies, flies, or crickets. They also eat plant material and occasional birds. At times, the reptile can stop eating due to boredom, brumation, or weather changes. If the chameleon does not have any health problems, this behavior should not cause alarm.
When it comes to water, these chameleons are pretty big drinkers. But do not expect them to drink from a bowl. Instead, they sip the tiny water droplets on leaves. You may need to purchase an automatic misting system for the Parson’s enclosure to keep your pet hydrated.
3. They Do Not Make Cuddly Pets
If you are looking for a cuddly pet, the Parson’s chameleon is not it. This species is solitary, which means it dislikes company and handling. If you are thinking of purchasing two Parson’s, each reptile will need a separate cage.
4. Parson’s Chameleons Are Prone to Mouth Disease
This species is susceptible to stomatitis. Signs of this mouth disease include discoloration along the gum lines and teeth. Luckily, immediate treatment can prevent permanent damage and death.
Conclusion
The Parson’s is a beautiful, fascinating, and large chameleon. Although the Parson’s chameleon is expensive, it is a low-maintenance pet. It is an unaggressive pet that prefers solitude.
When buying the reptile, ensure that you only get it from a reliable, trustworthy breeder. Also, choose a captive-bred Parsons instead of a wild-caught one.
Featured Image Credit: Virginie Merckaert, Shutterstock
