NILE MONITOR

Varanus niloticus

 

Nile Monitors are native to western and central Africa where they inhabit lakes, swamps, and other bodies of water at the borders of forested areas. Babies can be tamed with frequent handling.  Monitors are aggressive and can bite hard but babies can be tamed with frequent handling.

 

Maximum size: 4.5-7’

 

Lighting: Full spectrum fluorescent UV bulbs and a basking light are required.

 

Temperature range: Day 76°F- 90°F Night 72°-78°F

 

Food:  Crickets, mealworms, waxworms, feeder fish, and appropriately sized mice or rats coated in calcium and vitamin powder. 

 

Water: A large container of clean water should always be provided.

 

Housing/Habitat: Their natural habitat can be simulated with an aquarium equipped with an under tank heater at one end.  The bottom of the aquarium should be covered with a jungle mix type litter, landscaped with rocks and driftwood to create hiding and basking areas.