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Oustalet's chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti)

Oustalet's chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti), typical appearance of the species

Chameleons · Difficulty: Intermediate

Key facts and care guidance for Oustalet's chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti) (origin: Madagascar (the whole island; the most adaptable and widespread species)). Adult size around Males up to ~60–70 cm, females approx. 40 cm total length (largest chameleon species). Life expectancy ~6–12 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Oustalet's chameleon: How big does the enclosure need to be?

120×80×150 cm for one adult animal (better 180×80×180 cm; a very large species).

Oustalet's chameleon: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 24–30 °C (22–29 °C), basking spot 32–38 °C, at night 18–21 °C.

Oustalet's chameleon: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: UVB needed (Ferguson zone 2–3, UV index 2–4).

Oustalet's chameleon: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: ~6–12 years.

Oustalet's chameleon: Is it suitable for beginners?

Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).

Climate

Daytime temperature
24–30 °C (22–29 °C)
Night temperature
18–21 °C
Basking spot
32–38 °C
Humidity
60–80 %
UVB
UVB needed (Ferguson zone 2–3, UV index 2–4)

Enclosure

Minimum size
120×80×150 cm for one adult animal (better 180×80×180 cm; a very large species)
Substrate
A soil and coco mix, deep enough for egg-laying

Feeding

Food
Large insects: locusts, large crickets, roaches; very large animals occasionally take small vertebrates
Feeding interval
adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily

Key facts

Adult size
Males up to ~60–70 cm, females approx. 40 cm total length (largest chameleon species)
Life expectancy
~6–12 years
Origin
Madagascar (the whole island; the most adaptable and widespread species)
Protection status
CITES Appendix II / EU Regulation Annex B; export is subject to quotas, proof of origin required
Brumation
No real winter rest; a slight seasonal variation
Cohabitation
Keeping them singly is the standard (the males do not get on, and gravid females are strictly solitary). Keep them as a pair only in very large enclosures, by experienced keepers, with supervision and retreats

Notes

A very large, relatively robust species; it needs plenty of space and stable climbing branches (Ficus, lianas). Usually wild-caught → quarantine. Not suitable for small terrariums.

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Related species

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What you need to start

To keep Oustalet's chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (120×80×150 cm for one adult animal (better 180×80×180 cm; a very large species)), substrate (A soil and coco mix, deep enough for egg-laying), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.

Last updated: 30 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Furcifer_oustaleti, https://reptilesmagazine.com/oustalets-chameleon-care-and-breeding/, https://www.madcham.de/en/furcifer-oustaleti/

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).