Chameleon Hatch Aid, The Cap

The majority of chameleons lay eggs that incubate for several months. As hatching approaches, the eggs begin to release a liquid or droplets on their surface, signaling the start of the hatching process. At this point, breeders in captivity face a decision: allow the baby chameleon to hatch naturally or intervene by carefully cutting the egg open. Some chameleons may struggle to hatch on their own due to various reasons. One common issue, though not fully understood, is that remnants of the yolk sac can form a cap over the chameleon's head, potentially obstructing its snout. The snout contains a specialized structure called the egg tooth, which the baby uses to break through the eggshell. If the yolk sac obstructs access to the egg tooth, the baby may be unable to cut through the shell, making it necessary for the breeder to assist by opening the egg and facilitating the hatching process.