Monitor lizards, known for their intelligence and inquisitive nature, have been gaining popularity as pets among reptile enthusiasts. With a diverse range of species, sizes, and colors, monitor lizards offer something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the world of monitor lizards as pets, covering everything from their history to their unique care requirements.
Quick Reference Table: Monitor Lizard Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Varanus spp. |
| Native Habitat | Africa, Asia, Australia |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Size Range | 1 to 10 feet (depending on species) |
| Lifespan | 10 to 20 years (depending on species) |
| Temperament | Varies, but generally inquisitive and intelligent |
How Are Monitor Lizards as Pets?
Monitor lizards can make fascinating and rewarding pets for experienced reptile keepers. They are intelligent, active, and curious animals that require a significant investment of time, space, and resources.
Pros and Cons of Monitor Lizards
Pros:
- Intelligent and inquisitive animals
- Wide variety of species with different sizes and colors
- Can form a bond with their owner when properly socialized
Cons:
- Require a large, specialized enclosure
- Need a carefully balanced diet
- Can be territorial and aggressive if not socialized properly
- Not suitable for beginners
Monitor Lizard Behavior and Temperament
Monitor lizards are known for their intelligence and curiosity. Each individual has its own personality, but many are active and enjoy exploring their environment. Monitors can be aggressive or territorial, but with proper socialization and handling, they can form a bond with their owner.
How Much Do Monitor Lizards Cost?
The cost of a monitor lizard can vary widely depending on the species, age, and breeder. Prices can range from $50 to well over $1,000. Initial setup costs for a proper enclosure, heating, lighting, and furnishings can be several hundred dollars or more. Ongoing expenses include food, substrate, and electricity for maintaining the proper temperature and humidity.
Monitor Lizard Lifespan: Time and Commitment
Monitor lizards can live between 10 to 20 years or more, depending on the species. Owning a monitor lizard requires a long-term commitment to their care, including providing a proper enclosure, diet, and regular interaction to maintain their health and well-being.
Monitor Lizard Size
Monitor lizards vary greatly in size depending on the species, ranging from about 1 foot long for the smallest species to over 10 feet long for the largest. Be sure to research the specific species you are interested in to ensure you can provide the space and care they require.
Monitor Lizard Species
Ackie Monitor (Varanus acanthurus)
A popular choice for beginners, ackie monitors are relatively small and easy to care for, with an adult size of around 2 feet.
Argus Monitor (Varanus panoptes)
Argus monitors are known for their bold personalities and can grow to be about 4 to 5 feet long.
Asian Water Monitor (Varanus salvator)
One of the largest monitor species, Asian water monitors can reach lengths of up to 9 feet and require a very large enclosure with access to water.
Monitor Lizard Colors, Looks and Appearances
Monitor lizards come in a range of colors, patterns,and appearances depending on the species. Some species have striking patterns, while others have more muted colors that help them blend into their natural environment. Common colors include various shades of brown, green, black, and gray, often with contrasting markings or bands.
Monitor Lizard Care Guide
Proper monitor lizard care involves providing a spacious and well-designed enclosure, a balanced diet, and regular interaction to ensure their health and well-being. Here’s a closer look at some key aspects of monitor lizard care:
Monitor Lizard Habitat: Tank and Housing
Appropriate Monitor Lizard Tank Size
The appropriate tank size for a monitor lizard will depend on the species and the adult size of the animal. Generally, the enclosure should be at least twice as long and wide as the lizard’s total length, with enough height for climbing opportunities.
Types of Enclosures
Custom-built enclosures made of wood or PVC are ideal for monitor lizards, as they provide the necessary insulation and durability. Glass aquariums are generally not recommended due to their poor insulation and limited size options.
Substrate Options
A suitable substrate for monitor lizards should allow for burrowing and help maintain proper humidity levels. Options include cypress mulch, coconut coir, or a mixture of soil and sand.
Heating and Lighting Requirements
Monitor lizards require a basking spot with temperatures between 120-150°F (49-66°C), as well as a cooler area with temperatures around 75-85°F (24-29°C). UVB lighting is essential to help them metabolize calcium and maintain proper bone health.
Humidity and Temperature Control
Humidity requirements vary by species, but most monitor lizards need moderate to high humidity levels. This can be achieved through regular misting, large water dishes, and proper substrate. A thermostat and hygrometer are essential to monitor and maintain the correct temperature and humidity levels.
Furnishings and Decorations
Provide your monitor lizard with plenty of climbing and hiding opportunities, such as branches, logs, and cork bark. Providing a variety of hiding spots will help reduce stress and make your lizard feel more secure.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for your monitor lizard. Spot-clean the enclosure daily to remove feces and uneaten food, and perform a thorough cleaning with a reptile-safe disinfectant every few weeks.
Monitor Lizard Food: Diet and Nutrition
Feeding Frequency and Schedule
Feeding frequency varies depending on the age and size of the monitor lizard. Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every 2-3 days. Adjust the feeding schedule according to your lizard’s activity level and body condition.
What do Monitor Lizards Eat?
Monitor lizards are carnivorous and require a varied diet of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds. The specific diet will depend on the species and size of the monitor lizard.
Monitor Lizard Treats
Occasionally, you can offer treats like boiled eggs, shrimp, or lean cooked meats. Treats should be given sparingly and not replace the main diet of whole prey items.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid feeding your monitor lizard processed or high-fat foods, such as hot dogs or ground beef. These can lead to obesity and health issues. Also, avoid feeding them wild-caught prey, which may contain parasites or pesticides.
Supplements and Vitamins
Dusting prey items with a calcium supplement and an occasional multivitamin can help ensure that your monitor lizard receives the necessary nutrients for proper growth and bone health.
Hydration
Monitor lizards should have access to clean, fresh water at all times. A large, shallow water dish should be provided, and the water should be changed daily to prevent bacterial growth.
Handling and Socialization
Taming and Bonding
Monitor lizards can be tamed and socialized with patience and consistent, gentle handling. Start by hand-feeding your lizard and gradually progress to touching and handling over time. Building trust is essential for a positive relationship with your pet.
Safe Handling Techniques
When handling a monitor lizard, approach them slowly and calmly. Scoop them up from underneath rather than grabbing from above, which can trigger a defensive response. Always support their body and limbs to prevent injury.
Signs of Stress and Illness
Monitor lizards may display signs of stress or illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or excessive hiding. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with a reptile veterinarian to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Introducing Monitor Lizards to Other Pets
Monitor lizards should generally not be housed with other pets or other monitor lizards, as they can be territorial and aggressive. If you have multiple reptiles, ensure that each has its own separate enclosure and exercise caution during handling and feeding sessions.
Health and Wellness
Common Health Issues
Monitor lizards can suffer from various health issues, including metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasites. Proper husbandry, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent many common health problems.
Signs of a Healthy Monitor Lizard
A healthy monitor lizard should be alert, active, and curious. They should have a healthy appetite, regular bowel movements, and maintain a consistent body weight. Their skin should be free from cuts, sores, or abnormal bumps.
Preventative Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, proper diet, and a clean, well-maintained enclosure are crucial for preventing health issues in monitor lizards. Monitoring your lizard’s behavior and appearance can help detect problems early and ensure prompt treatment.
Finding a Reptile Veterinarian
Locate a reptile veterinarian experienced in treating monitor lizards. Establishing a relationship with a vet before any issues arise can make it easier to seek help when needed and ensure your lizard receives the best care possible.
Breeding and Reproduction
Determining Gender
Determining the gender of monitor lizards can be challenging, especially in juveniles. Adult males typically have larger, more developed hemipenal bulges at the base of their tail, while females have smaller, less pronounced bulges.
Mating Behavior and Courtship
Monitor lizard mating behavior can vary by species but often involves courtship displays, such as head-bobbing or circling. Males may assert dominance through wrestling or biting.
Gravidity and Egg-laying
After successful mating, females will become gravid and lay a clutch of eggs. The number of eggs will depend onthe species and size of the female. Provide a suitable nesting area, such as a box filled with moist substrate, for egg-laying.
Incubation and Hatching
Monitor lizard eggs require proper incubation conditions, including consistent temperature and humidity, for successful hatching. Incubation times will vary depending on the species. Once hatched, baby monitor lizards will need a specialized diet and care regimen.
Caring for Hatchlings
Monitor lizard hatchlings should be housed separately from adults and fed a diet appropriate for their size and species. Smaller prey items, such as insects, should be offered initially. Monitor their growth, and adjust their diet and enclosure as needed.
Are Monitor Lizards Legal?
Before considering a monitor lizard as a pet, research local laws and regulations regarding their ownership, as some species may be restricted or require a permit. Always obtain your pet from a reputable breeder or rescue organization to ensure legal and ethical practices.
Popular Names for Monitor Lizards
Here’s a list of fun and interesting names for your monitor lizard:
- Draco
- Lizzie
- Smaug
- Thor
- Viper
- Zeus
- Rex
- Monty
- Iggy
- Hydra
Conclusion: Should You Own Monitor Lizards as Pets?
Monitor lizards can be fascinating and rewarding pets for experienced reptile keepers who are committed to providing proper care and attention. These intelligent, curious creatures require a spacious enclosure, a varied diet, and regular interaction to thrive. If you’re willing to devote the time, effort, and resources to meet their needs, owning a monitor lizard can be a truly unique and enjoyable experience. However, always consider the long-term commitment and potential challenges before deciding to bring a monitor lizard into your home. Responsible ownership is key to ensuring the health and happiness of your pet.
FAQ for Pet Monitor Lizards
Q: Are Monitor Lizards good pets?
A: Monitor lizards can be fascinating pets for experienced reptile keepers who are committed to providing proper care and attention. They require a spacious enclosure, a varied diet, and regular interaction to thrive.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat grapes?
A: No, Monitor Lizards are carnivorous and should not be fed fruits, including grapes. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat bananas?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed bananas or other fruits. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat strawberries?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed strawberries or other fruits. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat apples?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed apples or other fruits. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat spinach?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed spinach or other vegetables. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat tomatoes?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed tomatoes or other vegetables. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat carrots?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed carrots or other vegetables. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat cucumbers?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed cucumbers or other vegetables. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat watermelon?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed watermelon or other fruits. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat broccoli?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed broccoli or other vegetables. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat blueberries?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed blueberries or other fruits. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat celery?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed celery or other vegetables. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat cabbage?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed cabbage or other vegetables. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat cilantro?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed cilantro or other vegetables. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat kale?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed kale or other vegetables. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat blackberries?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed blackberries or other fruits. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat oranges?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed oranges or other fruits. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat avocados?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed avocados or other fruits. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat corn?
A:No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed corn or other vegetables. Their diet should consist of whole prey items, such as insects, rodents, fish, and birds.
Q: Can Monitor Lizards eat asparagus?
A: No, Monitor Lizards should not be fed asparagus or other vegetables. They require a carnivorous diet of whole prey items.
Q: How often do Monitor Lizards eat?
A: The feeding frequency for Monitor Lizards depends on their age and size. Juveniles typically need to eat every day or every other day, while adults can be fed every 2-4 days. Consult with an experienced reptile veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations for your pet.
Q: How long do Monitor Lizards live?
A: Monitor Lizards can live for 10-20 years or more in captivity, depending on the species and provided they receive proper care and nutrition.
Q: Where are Monitor Lizards native?
A: Monitor Lizards are native to Africa, Asia, and Australia. They inhabit a variety of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and deserts.
Q: Are Monitor Lizards friendly?
A: Monitor Lizards can become accustomed to human interaction with consistent, gentle handling. However, they may not be considered “friendly” in the same way as domesticated pets like dogs or cats. It’s important to respect their space and natural instincts.
Q: Do Monitor Lizards bite?
A: Monitor Lizards have the potential to bite if they feel threatened or stressed. Proper handling techniques, patience, and understanding of their behavior can help minimize the risk of bites.
Q: Do Monitor Lizards like to be held?
A: Some Monitor Lizards may tolerate or even enjoy being held, while others may be more resistant. It’s important to build trust through regular, gentle handling and respect their individual preferences.
Q: Are Monitor Lizards nocturnal?
A: Most Monitor Lizard species are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. However, there are a few species, such as the Crocodile Monitor, that are primarily nocturnal.
Q: Do Monitor Lizards pee?
A: Monitor Lizards excrete both solid and liquid waste through their cloaca. Their urine is typically excreted as a semi-solid, white substance called urates, along with their feces.
Q: Do Monitor Lizards hibernate?
A: Monitor Lizards do not hibernate, but they may become less active during cooler periods or when food is scarce.
Q: Do Monitor Lizards make noise?
A: Monitor Lizards are generally quiet animals, but they may occasionally hiss or vocalize if they feel threatened or stressed.
Q: Are Monitor Lizards venomous or poisonous?
A: Monitor Lizards are not venomous or poisonous, but some species may have bacteria in their mouths that can cause infections if a bite occurs. Proper hygiene and immediate care for any bites is essential.
Q: Are Monitor Lizards smart?
A: Monitor Lizards are considered intelligent reptiles, with some species demonstrating problem-solving abilities and learning capabilities. They can also recognize their caretakers and develop trust over time.
Q: Do Monitor Lizards need heat at night?
A: Monitor Lizards need a temperature gradient in their enclosure, with a basking area and cooler areas. At night, the overall temperature can be slightly cooler, but a minimum temperature should still be maintained. Consult with an experienced reptile veterinarian for specific temperature requirements for your pet.
Q: Do Monitor Lizards lay eggs?
A: Most Monitor Lizard species lay eggs, while a few species give birth to live young. If you have a breeding pair, it’s important to provide a suitable nesting area and consult with an experienced reptile veterinarian for proper care.
Q: Do Monitor Lizards smell?
A: Monitor Lizards themselves do not have a strong odor, but their enclosure can develop a smell if not cleaned regularly. Proper enclosure maintenance and hygiene practices can help minimize any odors.