Hello,
The problem that is occurring here, is a very common one. It is a pricing problem. In my ideal world, all monitors would be priced on a difficulty scale- that is difficulty in succeeding- the Retes definition of succeeding(look that up in the archives). Ackies-$300 would be at the bottom of the scale. Pet stores(I am guessing that is who convinced you that the savs would make good "pets"
are notorious for pedaling cheap- difficult- animals onto their clientele. I and the others addressing you are questioning you because if you have read here before(and you may want to archive search)you will find that tanks, fish tanks(especially with screen tops)make dreadful monitor enclosures. You can make it work, if your as good(for the lizards-not impressing us with knowledge) as I am hoping that you are, but you have already got us worried. Monitors are very expensive animals- even an initially cheap savannah. Put some cash and work into your cage, then and only then, acquire your lizards. Ackies are a better choice in any case, but you will still need to do some rehousing.
Now to offer some help(I'm not always a critic), start off by visiting a farm supply store(not going thru this one again) for a cattle watering trough. They are galvanized steel-not much to look at- but tough, hold deep dirt like a champ and can take any abuse that you or your lizards can dish out. You can make a top for it in your work shop- or ask Dad (that's how most here get their first, nothing wrong with that)... You will have fun spying on your lizards acting like lizards, and they will live more fulfilling lives. Ask more questions- because, I have a feeling that those lizards are on the way or already home- We want them to feel at home and you to realize the 10-20 years(if they are -really- lucky) of punishment that you have now dedicated yourself to.
Did you buy your shovel- you will need it. A bucket or better yet a wheel barrel, and the pickup truck...
Since you didn't get the green iguana, we won't need the chain saw- or do savannahs ever climb... We'll pass for now...
Get the plywood and some bricks and rocks, no, the big ones- oh, now the glass tank is definitely out...
Look, My father preached the seven p's and I am just passing this on to all of those who see themselves as potential monitor keepers(BREEDERS)- I am sure as heck not one yet... : Proper prior planning prevents piss poor performance!
Uh oh, can I say that...? Oh well, it's out!
Point being, monitors are not kids pets but rather adult responsibilities. If you are mature enough, go for it, but do your research- get a job to support them and remember that the real work will start when you come home to them. Best to you all- Mike
