Origin:

  Nile Monitors are found near bodies of water throughout middle & southern Africa.

Description:

  The Nile monitor has a basic coloration of olive green to black with bands of yellowish dots starting at the base of the skull. The Nile monitor may reach a length of up to 7 feet with the average being 5 1/2 - 6 feet. They can weigh up to 30 pounds.

Feeding:

  Nile monitors are carnivorous. They feed on a diet consisting of crickets, mealworms and rodents. Hatchlings should be fed a diet of insects that are coated and fed vitamin and mineral supplements. Young monitors should be offered food daily. As they reach the sub-adult stage, they may take less food and as they reach adulthood they may go to weekly feedings. Madagascar hissing cockroaches are a great between meal snack. You can also use a prepared diet consisting of thoroughly cooked ground turkey and eggs. A healthy Nile monitor should have a prominent fat reserve at the base of the tail.

Housing:

  A baby Nile monitor requires a minimum of a 10 gallon aquarium. A bigger, stronger enclosure will be needed to house an adult Nile monitor (remember they grow to at least 5'-6'). Nile monitors can have tree limbs in their housing to allow them to climb and bask but not too high so that they may fall and get hurt. They should be provided with a large enough water dish for them to completely immerse themselves. The monitor will use this dish as a drinking fountain, swimming pool and toilet so frequent cleaning is necessary. Heat is an absolute must. Heat may be provided by lamps or undertank heaters. A spotlight may be hung above one end of the tank or cage. Light may also be provided through ultraviolet lights such as Vita-lites. Nile monitors can be housed using aspen shavings, cypress mulch or bark chips. Use a variety of large rocks so that the monitor's claws will wear down and also for basking.

Temperature:

  You should have your tank or cage to be in the daytime temperature range of 85-95 degrees Fahrenheit. The nighttime temperature should be 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit. A basking area (110-135 degrees Fahrenheit) should also be provided. The humidity level should be between 50 and 75 percent.

Compliments of:
S & S Exotic Animals, Inc.,  1711 Connorvale,  Houston, TX 77039  (281) 590-0426
http://www.sandsexoticanimals.com