our lazy panther... problem? help!

[AshleyAndSean]

Hey all,

So our male panther chameleon is about 4 months old now and he's gotten SOOOO lazy with his tongue... as in he almost forgets it's long. He's been walking right up to prey items and catching them from a short distance. We typically feed him mostly crickets that have been gutloaded and dusted. We also throw in a butterworm every other day or so because he loves them. We're just wondering if there's a way to get him to shoot his tongue out more, we're scared he's not developing properly.

Thanks,
Ashley and Sean

 

[Lpsouth1978]

In general, that is not normal. There are several things that can contribute to this behavior. Please fill out the form below so we can better help you figure out what is wrong, if anything. Also post pictures of your guy and his cage.

Chameleon Info:
Your Chameleon - The species, sex, and age of your chameleon. How long has it been in your care?
Handling - How often do you handle your chameleon?
Feeding - What are you feeding your cham? What amount? What is the schedule? How are you gut-loading your feeders?
Supplements - What brand and type of calcium and vitamin products are you dusting your feeders with and what is the schedule?
Watering - What kind of watering technique do you use? How often and how long to you mist? Do you see your chameleon drinking?
Fecal Description - Briefly note colors and consistency from recent droppings. Has this chameleon ever been tested for parasites?
History - Any previous information about your cham that might be useful to others when trying to help you.

Cage Info:
Cage Type - Describe your cage (Glass, Screen, Combo?) What are the dimensions?
Lighting - What brand, model, and types of lighting are you using? What is your daily lighting schedule?
Temperature - What temp range have you created (cage floor to basking spot)? Lowest overnight temp? How do you measure these temps?
Humidity - What are your humidity levels? How are you creating and maintaining these levels? What do you use to measure humidity?
Plants - Are you using live plants? If so, what kind?
Placement - Where is your cage located? Is it near any fans, air vents, or high traffic areas? At what height is the top of the cage relative to your room floor?
Location - Where are you geographically located?

Current Problem - The current problem you are concerned about.