Monitor lizards

Monitor lizards are large, powerful, diurnal, carnivorous lizards, reputed to be among the most intelligent of reptiles. They range from medium-sized species to the colossal Komodo dragon. They are fascinating animals, but demanding ones, to be reserved for experienced keepers.

Its living environment

Everything depends on the adult size of the species: beyond about 120 cm, a monitor requires a custom-built set-up, or even a dedicated room; below that, a large terrarium is suitable. Provide a front opening with locks, good ventilation and a bathing area. Heating is provided by lamp (with a thermostat and a guard) to create hot spots, within a range of roughly 22 to 40 °C depending on the species. One crucial point: monitors need UV rays to stay healthy, so the lighting must supply them. Hygiene is essential: weekly disinfection of the terrarium, water changed every day, clean hands for any handling.

Its diet

Reproduce as closely as possible the variety of its wild diet: insects dusted with calcium and, depending on the species, small vertebrates. Calcium is particularly important. Feed juveniles every day and adults more sparingly — obesity is a real risk for monitors in captivity. Offer food with tongs, one prey item per animal, keeping the greediest individuals separate.

Legal protection

All monitor species are protected (Washington Convention/CITES), whether live or as skins, and their keeping is regulated: find out about the Swiss legal framework before acquiring one.

Content from the Au Furet veterinary practice, rewritten for owners.