Is It Legal to Own a Chameleon in China in 2024? What Permits Are Required?

In 2024, to keep a chameleon in China, it is necessary to purchase it through legal channels and also apply for a Wildlife Domestication and Breeding License from the relevant authorities. Keeping a chameleon purchased from irregular channels without the necessary permits is illegal.

Chameleons are not classified as national protected animals in China. They are introduced as foreign species, but they are listed in the CITES appendices, which means that individuals in China who wish to keep chameleons must obtain a Wildlife Domestication and Breeding License and purchase them from authorized sources. If the purchase channel is not legitimate or if you don't have the appropriate permits, it is considered an illegal activity. Many people in China are passionate about chameleons, but keeping them well is not easy. Chameleons have very high requirements for their living environment. Before keeping one, you need to prepare thoroughly. Besides obtaining the license in advance, you need to prepare enclosures, plants, soil, lighting, and food to create a suitable environment for them. Ensuring the chameleon's habitat is adequate is crucial for its well-being.

Essential Preparations for Keeping Chameleons

1. Basic Enclosure Requirements

To prevent your chameleon from escaping outdoors, you should prepare a suitable enclosure. You'll also need tree branches, plants, substrate (such as newspaper, soil, or moss), a thermometer and hygrometer, a water source, and a food bowl. Generally, for medium-sized chameleons, an adult male would need a breeding space of approximately 120cm x 60cm x 60cm (height x length x width).

2. Temperature Needs

Chameleons have very specific temperature requirements. They thrive outdoors in the southern regions due to the warm environment. Generally, the daytime temperature should be maintained between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius, and the nighttime temperature between 22 and 26 degrees Celsius. If a chameleon is exposed to low temperatures for a long time, its appetite will significantly decrease, and its growth rate will slow down.

3. Humidity Levels

Excessive humidity in the enclosure can lead to the proliferation of bacteria. The ideal humidity for a chameleon’s environment should be around 50% during the day and 70% during the night. Chameleons kept outdoors in southern areas typically don’t require additional humidification. However, in dry winter conditions, a little spraying of water can help maintain the desired humidity.

4. Proper Diet

The primary food sources for chameleons should include crickets, roaches, and grasshoppers. Other insects such as mealworms, waxworms, and silkworms can be used as supplementary food. Insects that are too small, such as ants and mosquitoes, are not suitable for chameleons. The size of the food should not exceed the size of the chameleon's head. Ensuring a proper diet and suitable living conditions is crucial for the health and well-being of your pet chameleon. Always source your chameleon from a legal breeder and be sure to have all appropriate permits to be compliant with local laws.Source:5D Pet World