Why are Pygmy Chams Different?

[nick barta]

I was thinking about this, and thought it might make an intersting thread. Pygmy Chams are typically kept in enclosures that we (American keepers at least!) would NOT use for most any other Chameleon. Understanding that we replicate their natural habitat, and the vivarium, substrata, lower air flow, and wet world is neccessary, what is different about Pygmies that allows them to thrive where other Chams would perish quickly? Are they more resistant to molds and bacterias?


Sorry didn't see the Pygmy Enclosure sub forum!

 

[lampshade]

Regardless if you're an American or not, pygmies are kept the same. People from Great Britain don't keep their pygmies in shoe boxes, so I don't know what you mean by "American Keepers." Second, they need higher humidity because they are located in mountainous terrain. And closing them in behind glass enclosures this tends to keep humidity persistent and high. They need this because they are a mountain dwelling species where they have acclimated to colder temperatures. They need lower temperatures compared to other chams. And that holds true for not just pygmies but Jacksons, and Mellers as well as a long list of others.

Pygmies are "different" because they come from different areas. They aren't used to the heat or dryness of locations. It's kind of common sense.

 

[eisentrauti]

I think it's a big problem that many people in the US us fish tanks for pygmies. The ventilation in such tanks is very very bad

 

[Sporkthedork]

I think it's a big problem that many people in the US us fish tanks for pygmies. The ventilation in such tanks is very very bad

What would you suggest is a better a cage? Just curious, was thinking of getting pygmies before but I don't think I can handle their short life span.

 

[addicted]

People from Great Britain don't keep their pygmies in shoe boxes, so I don't know what you mean by "American Keepers."

I think what Nick was referring to is the fact that most commonly kept chameleons (ie. panthers and vieleds) are not recommended to be kept in an all glass enclosure here in NA, whereas in the UK it is acceptable (and sometimes necessary) due to your lower climate.

I think it's a big problem that many people in the US us fish tanks for pygmies. The ventilation in such tanks is very very bad

I thought most people use a terrarium for keeping pygmies, they are mostly made of glass but they have 2 doors and a vent on the front and a screen top.

 

[Julirs]

My greatest sucess with pygmies(Brevs.) has been keeping them in plastic totes-the same ones that many people raise baby chameleons in. They have a wider top, and are not quite as high providing for better airflow. I will post some pics as soon as I go get some camera batteries.

 

[addicted]

Oh, yes, please do! I haven't seen them kept that way, sounds much more cost-effective too (not that cost is ever the deciding factor when designing a chams enclosure, but if you can do it for cheaper, why not)