They die.

True chameleons (or old world chameleons) are highly evolved and delicate reptiles. They require extensive housing, special vitamin and mineral supplementation, exposure to UV lighting, a varied diet, and unusual watering in order to thrive in captivity.

True chameleons are arboreal, insectivorous lizards which are found throughout much of the tropical old world. They are quite different from the Carolina Anoles which are sometimes sold in pet stores as 'chameleons', probably because of the anoles limited ability to change colors.

Chameleons have evolved many striking adaptations which allow them to fill their special niche in the wild.

Of the special evolutionary characteristics unique to chameleons, they are best known for their ability to change colors. These color changes help them regulate body temperature, communicate with other chameleons, and camouflage themselves in their natural habitat. A chameleon's ability to change colors varies depending upon species, gender, age as well as other factors. Even within a single species, markings and coloration vary greatly. A chameleon's long, extendable tongue, which are as much as 1.5 times the length of its body, allows it to grab food from a great distance. Their globular, independent eyes help them to survey the world almost 360 around them - without moving their head or body. Their feet are ideal for grabbing and holding branches. But, in general, chameleons are awkward and clumsy on the ground.

These special adaptations are what make chameleons so magnificent to watch. They are also what make them so difficult to care for in captivity.

Every year tens of thousands of wild caught chameleons are imported into the United States bound for wholesalers and pet shops, many of whom are unaware of the special requirements of true chameleons. By the time these animals arrive in the United States, they have already been deprived of food, water and adequate shelter. Many arrive dead or near dead, heavily parasitized, malnourished and dehydrated.

Those that survive the trip to the United States are often sold to pet shops that house them improperly. By the time their new owners have taken them home the chameleons days are already numbered, especially when the new owner has not been informed, or has been misinformed about the care their new pet requires.

Fortunately, this is changing. Organizations, like the Chameleon Information Network (CIN) have been working to distribute quality information about the husbandry and propagation of true chameleons in captivity. New laws have been passed making it more difficult to import chameleons from the wild. This increases the demand for captive bred animals, which tend to be healthier and better adapted to life in captivity.