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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-chameleon-short-lifespan

Which of these pet reptiles has the shortest typical lifespan on Merck's table?

Old World chameleons, about 3 to 8 years.

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  1. Old World chameleons ✔
  2. Leopard gecko
  3. Ball python

Why: Merck lists Old World chameleons at 3 to 8 years. That is shorter than its 20+ years for leopard geckos and 15 to 20 years for ball pythons.

Huh, didn't know that: Merck lists green iguanas at 5 to 15 years in captivity.

The dad joke
Why did the chameleon get a job at the paint store? It was great at matching colors.
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References

Answer: Old World chameleons. Merck lists Old World chameleons at 3 to 8 years. That is shorter than its 20+ years for leopard geckos and 15 to 20 years for ball pythons.

  1. Average Life Span of Reptiles in Captivity (Merck Veterinary Manual) www.merckvetmanual.com/multimedia/table/average-life-span-of-reptiles-in-captivity
    Old World chameleons 3 to 8 years
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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