I completely agree with what Frank said!

If size is an issue then I would think about a different monitor, at least to me this seems like the most logical choice. There are a lot of great monitors to choose from that reach adult lengths of 3-4'. It's true that females are generally smaller than males but the difference is size is less or more dramatic depending on the species and of course there are always exceptions to this especially with species that already have less of a gap between males and females.

I your heart is set on a V. albigularis I would suggest a Cape Banded White Throat monitor. They are smaller than black throats and IMO a better looking monitor. They're actually one of my favorite varanids! The only problem is that they're much harder to come by but if you're not in a rush, I would hold out until one pops up for sale.

If your open to other options I would suggest something like an Argus, Goulds or Flavi. All have of which are great monitors the Goulds and Flavis are much harder to come by than argus. There are also Argus crossed with flavis and Goulds that are offered for sale which obviously are CBB which is great. Since it's going to be a pet and not a breeding endeavor one of the crosses if you find one would be a great option.

Some might blast me for this but I would stay away from Mangroves (V. indicus), blue tailed (V.doreanus), Peach throats (V.jobiensis) and Yellow or Quinces (V. melinus). These don't make the best pets regardless of how beautiful they are most likely you will be looking at an empty cage most of the time, as they'll run for cover even before you get near the room in which they are kept. Not to say they can't be worked with and trained not to fear you but it takes a lot more work with these than say an argus or a white throat.
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Charles Koutris

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