The Cuban False Chameleon Care, also known as the Bearded Anole (scientific name Anolis barbatus), is a fascinating lizard native to Cuba. Despite its name, it is not a true chameleon but belongs to the Anole family.
These lizards are known for their unique appearance, which includes a broad, flat head and a skin flap, or dewlap, under the throat that can be extended. Their bodies are typically stocky with a camouflage pattern of brown and gray, allowing them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings.
Cuban False Chameleons have independently moving eyes, much like true chameleons, which allows them to scan for predators and prey simultaneously. Unlike many lizards, they are slow-moving and rely on their camouflage for protection rather than speed. In captivity, they require a habitat that mimics their natural environment, with plenty of branches for climbing and a high humidity level.
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Species Summary
The Cuban False Chameleon (Anolis barbatus) is part of the Dactyloidae family. Endemic to Cuba, it inhabits forests, woodlands, and densely vegetated areas, thriving in both humid and drier conditions. These lizards typically grow to about 4-7 inches in body length, excluding the tail, and can live up to 8-10 years in captivity.
Known for their slow movements and reliance on camouflage for protection, they possess independently moving eyes similar to true chameleons. Reproduction is oviparous, with females laying small clutches of eggs in moist soil or under debris.
While not currently threatened, habitat loss and the pet trade could impact wild populations. Adaptations include exceptional camouflage and the ability to obtain significant hydration from food, making them well-suited for drier habitats. In captivity, they require a terrarium with high humidity, plenty of climbing branches, and a diet rich in live insects and snails, along with proper UVB lighting.
Appearance & Colors
The Cuban False Chameleon Care has a distinctive appearance characterized by a broad, flat head and a stocky body. Its skin is typically covered in a camouflage pattern of brown, gray, and sometimes muted green tones, which helps it blend seamlessly into its natural environment. This coloration can vary slightly depending on its surroundings, allowing the lizard to remain well-hidden from predators.
The eyes of the Cuban False Chameleon are large and can move independently, giving it a wide field of vision and an almost chameleon-like appearance.
The scales on its body are generally rough and granular, contributing to its rugged, textured look. Its limbs are short and sturdy, equipped with toes that have adhesive pads, enabling it to climb and grip surfaces effectively.
Lifespan
In captivity, the Cuban False Chameleon (Anolis barbatus) typically lives between 8 to 10 years when provided with proper care, including a suitable habitat, diet, and environmental conditions. Their lifespan in the wild is less well-documented but is generally thought to be shorter due to factors like predation and environmental challenges. With the right attention to their needs in a controlled environment, these lizards can enjoy a relatively long and healthy life.
Average Size
The Cuban False Chameleon Care typically reaches an average body length of about 4 to 7 inches (10 to 18 cm), not including the tail. When the tail is included, their total length can extend to around 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm). Their stocky build and relatively short limbs contribute to their distinctive appearance.
Cuban False Chameleon Care
Enclosure: A vertical terrarium with plenty of branches and foliage for climbing and hiding is ideal. A 20-gallon tank is the minimum size recommended for a single lizard. Ensure the enclosure has good ventilation and is secure to prevent escape.
Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a temperature gradient within the enclosure, with a basking spot of around 85-90°F (29-32°C) and a cooler area of around 75-80°F (24-27°C). Humidity should be kept high, around 60-80%, to replicate their natural environment.
Lighting: Provide 10-12 hours of UVB lighting daily to support proper calcium absorption and overall health. A UVB bulb specifically designed for reptiles is essential, and it should be replaced every 6 months or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Diet: Cuban False Chameleon Care is primarily insectivorous. Dust the insects with a calcium supplement a few times a week, and provide a multivitamin supplement once a week.
Enclosure Size
For a Cuban False Chameleon Care, a vertical enclosure with a minimum size of 20 gallons is recommended for a single lizard. However, a larger enclosure, such as a 30-gallon tank or bigger, is ideal to provide ample space for climbing and exploration. The height of the enclosure is especially important, as these lizards are arboreal and enjoy climbing.
A taller tank, around 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) in height, is preferred to accommodate their natural behavior. If housing multiple lizards, increase the enclosure size accordingly to prevent territorial disputes and ensure each has enough space.
Habitat Setup
Include plenty of sturdy branches, vines, and cork bark pieces for climbing and perching at different levels, with varying thicknesses to accommodate the lizard’s grip. Arrange horizontal and vertical branches to create a complex environment. Add live plants like pothos, ficus, or bromeliads to increase humidity and provide natural cover, ensuring they are non-toxic and pesticide-free. Artificial plants can also be used.
Cuban False Chameleon Care Provide multiple hiding spots at different levels using hollow logs, plant cover, or commercial reptile hides to reduce stress and allow the lizard to feel secure. Create a temperature gradient with a basking spot of 85-90°F (29-32°C) on one side and a cooler area of 75-80°F (24-27°C) on the other, using a ceramic heat emitter or basking bulb. Monitor temperatures with thermometers placed at different levels.
Maintain a humidity level of 60-80% by misting the enclosure twice daily, using a humidity-retaining substrate, and adding a water dish. Position the UVB bulb near the basking spot but ensure it covers a large portion of the enclosure.
Temperature & Lighting
Temperature:
- Cooler Area: Ensure a cooler area in the enclosure with temperatures ranging from 75-80°F (24-27°C) to provide a gradient that allows the lizard to regulate its body temperature.
- Nighttime Temperature: At night, temperatures can drop to around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Ensure that the enclosure does not get too cold, as sudden temperature drops can be stressful.
Use thermometers placed at different levels in the enclosure to monitor the temperature gradient accurately. Adjust heat sources as needed to maintain consistent temperatures.
Lighting:
- UVB Lighting: Provide 10-12 hours of UVB lighting daily to simulate natural daylight and support proper calcium metabolism. A UVB bulb specifically designed for reptiles is essential.
- Day/Night Cycle: Ensure a consistent day/night cycle by using a timer to control the UVB and basking lights. This mimics natural light conditions and helps regulate the lizard’s biological rhythms.
Humidity
For a Cuban False Chameleon Care, maintain humidity within the range of 60-80%. This range replicates their natural habitat and helps prevent issues like dehydration and shedding problems. Mist the enclosure twice daily to increase humidity and provide the lizard with opportunities to drink from water droplets. Use a spray bottle or an automatic misting system for consistent moisture levels.
Opt for a moisture-retaining substrate, such as coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or a mix of organic soil and sphagnum moss, to help keep humidity levels stable. Include a shallow water dish in the enclosure for drinking and soaking, and clean and refill it daily. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels accurately and adjust as needed to maintain the desired range.
Water
Include a shallow, clean water dish in the enclosure for drinking and occasional soaking. Ensure it is cleaned and refilled daily to prevent bacterial growth and provide fresh water at all times. Mist the enclosure regularly, ideally twice daily, to increase humidity and allow the chameleon to drink droplets from surfaces and plants.
Misting also helps in keeping the overall environment moist. While the lizard will drink from the water dish, misting provides an additional source of hydration, making water droplets accessible on leaves and other surfaces for the lizard to lick off. Use dechlorinated water or bottled spring water to avoid harmful chemicals. Proper water and humidity management are essential for the Cuban False Chameleon’s health and comfort.
Food & Diet
- Primary Diet: Feed a variety of live insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches. These insects should be appropriately sized for the lizard, usually no larger than the width of its head.
- Additional Foods: They also enjoy snails, which are a natural part of their diet. Offering snails can provide variety and essential nutrients.
- Supplements: Dust the insects with a calcium supplement a few times a week to support bone health and prevent deficiencies. Provide a multivitamin supplement once a week to ensure a balanced diet.
- Feeding Frequency: Young Cuban False Chameleons may need to be fed more frequently, up to daily, while adults typically can be fed every other day.
- Water: Ensure fresh water is always available, and mist the enclosure regularly to help with hydration.
Potential Health Issues
- Dehydration: This can occur if humidity is too low or if the lizard does not drink enough water. Signs include wrinkled skin, lethargy, and sunken eyes. Ensure proper misting and a clean water dish.
- Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): A lack of calcium or UVB light can lead to MBD, characterized by weak or deformed bones. Symptoms include swelling of the limbs or jaw, lethargy, and difficulty moving.
- Respiratory Infections: Low humidity or poor ventilation can lead to respiratory issues, with symptoms such as wheezing, nasal discharge, or labored breathing. Maintain proper humidity and ventilation.
- Parasites: Internal or external parasites can cause weight loss, lethargy, or abnormal feces. Regularly inspect the lizard and its habitat, and consult a veterinarian if symptoms appear.
Conclusion
Caring for a Cuban False Chameleon Care involves providing a carefully maintained environment that mimics its natural habitat. A diet consisting of live insects and snails, along with appropriate supplements, is crucial for its health.
Monitoring for potential health issues such as dehydration, metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, parasites, shedding problems, and infections is important for maintaining the well-being of the lizard. By addressing these needs and creating an enriching and stable habitat, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your Cuban False Chameleon.
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