Again Croc Doc. This is all valuable information you are adding to the post. and I for one am greatful that you are taking the time to post your thoughts.



If you notice, I said a long time ago that they are no different from other reptiles as far as if you give them what they need, they will do well for you in captivity. Basic learning ability is a whole other subject. Fast metabolism is also another topic altogether. As far as social behavior, and emotions go, Varanids lack these things like most other reptiles. Sure they are not exactly like other reptiles. This is a given as other reptiles are not exactly like eachother but the basics are all the same. Once the basics are nailed down then you can fine tune. I just do not believe in putting blame a species or family of animals for their failure to thrive in captivity. The problem is not the varanid, the problem is the keeper. Varanids are not hard to keep. I have sucessfully kept many since 1992. From what I have seen and experienced, there is no single formula for doing so.



All reptiles need to maintain an optimal core temp. What that temperature is obviously depends on the species. It makes sence that species with an activity level and metabolic rate like a varanids would need to maintain a certain body temp. However, this does not change the fact that they are ectothermic and totally depend on their environmental conditions to maintain their optimal core temp.

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