The term used when females are unable to lay their eggs. It is true that female chameleons will lay eggs regardless if they have copulated (mated) or not. Signs of egg binding include loss of appetite, constipation, much increased basking time, pacing the cage, and often females will gain weight around their sides near their tail, indicating a presence of eggs. If you think your chameleon is egg bound and has not eaten for a while please seek a reptile vet and they will most likely give your chameleon a muscle relaxant; if eggs are not laid, it can be fatal.

 

Healthy female chameleons should produce few clutches of infertile eggs. Overeating seems to be largely involved in the production of an infertile clutch and therefore females food intake should be limited greatly. Also if you suspect your chameleon is eggbound or gravid, increase the calcium intake to recover the loss of calcium used to make the shells.

 

Female chameleons will not lay eggs if they cannot find a suitable egg laying site, or if stressed out. Many will lay their eggs during darker hours.

 

A simple egg laying cage can be easily constructed. All you need is a new garbage can, some screen or hardware cloth, a few perches and a bit of cover. Simply attach the screen around the inside of the garbage can and be sure to construct a lid. Of course a door is essential as well. Place at least 2 feet of laying medium in the garbage can and add cover and perches for comfort. Place a basking lamp over this temporary cage for daytime use. Only play her in this cage when you suspect she is close to laying. Continue to offer food and water and keep humidty high in order to prevent dehydration or starvation.

 

If you would like any additional information please feel free to contact me.