Monitors and Tegus are definitely not for the beginner reptile enthusiast and certainly not recommended as a casual pet. While they are fascinating creatures that are very intelligent, inquisitive, active and beautiful to look at, they do require specialist reptile knowledge and considerable commitment to keep in good health. Savannah monitors, unlike many other species, can actually become quite tame when they are handled often and in the right way, from a young age. This could account in part for their popularity and why perhaps they make the most rewarding pet.
Monitors and Tegus as Pets (Buy a Monitor, Monitors for Sale)
Monitor lizards make for some of the very best reptilian captives. Highly intelligent, active, inquisitive, and beautifully colored these lizards can be a joy to keep. However, they do require large cages, frequent cage and water cleanings, and lots of food.
Savannah Monitors as Pets
Species: Varanus exanthematicus
Savannah monitors can live 10-12 years and grow to 3 to 4 feet fully grown. The savannah monitor is a medium sized monitor but still requires a very large enclosure. With regular handling and attention, Savannah monitors can become fairly tame. Despite their availability, Savannah monitors are not a good choice for beginning reptile keepers, due to thier size and habitat requirements. Monitors are considered to be among the most intelligent reptiles. They are also escape artists and require a very secure enclosure. Juveniles can be fed every 2-3 days (1-4 pinkie or fuzzy mice, along with insects as long as they will accept them), and adults twice a week. The amount the adults need is a matter of judgement based on body condition and activity (remembering that obesity is common in monitors). Buy a Savannah Monitor.
Black and White Tegus as Pets
Water Monitors as Pets
