Setting up a new enclosure first time

[sleepy717]

Hello everyone, newbie here
I’m working on this enclose for a baby chameleon, which I have not purchased yet. He’s on hold. I mostly have small live safe plants. Will be purchasing different light bar when I pick him up. Adding a mister. The enclosure is 24x24x48 screen. Had trouble finding tree branches so I did put these two big climbing things in there for now. Still looking for safe branches. I wasn’t sure where to put these small plants so they’re just hanging around. I need plants in the back for sure. Please take a look at what i’ve got so far and nothing is in stone as I know I have no idea what I’m doing Would appreciate any feedback good or bad, All suggestions are welcome. Thanks

 

[Sonny13]

Hi and welcome! And already a big thumbs up for the work you've done so far and most importantly by doing this in advance. Most people buy first the chameleon and do the rest later!
For now 2 things; it looks like there's fake plant in behind, just remove it, no artificial plants are recommended. And removing it now, than causing stress later on when the cham is already in it.
As building it's great and will work, I would only at now lots of different sized branches and twigs. If you have garden with (hardwood) trees in it you can it from there, if you don't use pesticides. Just rinse them with water and them dry in the sun. Stuff the enclosure with it, general rule is every square inch of air is one unused for the chams benefit Especially if it's a baby use lots of thin twigs to ensure they have full grip.

If you would like maximum and full range feedback, I would recommend filling out following form and the more knowledgeable members will give feedback to get your husbandry spot on for your beautiful baby. Once again you're doing great already and this just the icing on the cake.

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.

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Please Note:

1. The more details you provide the better and more accurate help you will receive.
2. Photos can be very helpful.

 

[MissSkittles]

Very nice use of that manzanita. If you can’t find any branches, you could get some artificial vines. Avoid the black Exo Terra one and those which have moss and things on them. Fluker’s has a great vine. https://www.amazon.com/Fluker-Labs-...03&sprefix=chameleon+vine,aps,107&sr=8-3&th=1 I also use these, which are also good. https://www.amazon.com/Emours-Flexi...8102903&sprefix=chameleon+vine,aps,107&sr=8-7 https://www.amazon.com/Helidrago-Su...3&sprefix=chameleon+vine,aps,107&sr=8-40&th=1
You don’t say what type of chameleon you’re planning on - panther or veiled? With either species, you want to make sure all of your plants are safe. The ivy at the top will need to be replaced with something else for any species, as it’s toxic. If you are getting a veiled, it is essential that they are all tested and proven safe since they nibble their plants. This will help. https://chameleonacademy.com/plants/ Also about your plants, I like the little cups. Just make sure all of them have a drainage hole or two on the bottom. Without that they will get root rot.

 

[Gloriawood]

Just want to say hi and welcome!!! It’s looking good and you have gotten great advice so far