Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey guys, I've had my Croc Monitor for 2 years now, raised from CB hatchling. Not as tame as she used to be, haha. But still very much enjoyed. Well from time to time she would kinda whip her front or back leg back towards the center of her body. Today I changed the substrate(cypress mulch) Now she is exhibiting this behavior very frequently, like a couple times a minute... kinda starting to drive me nuts, and I think somethin's bothering her even more. Anyone have expereince with something like this? Mites in the mulch? I dunno, but she doesn't act like she's feeling very comfortable. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
thanks,
Eli

I only had mites once on a Burmese Python I tried to rescue. You can see them so if thats what it is take a look. If you don't see any its something else, maybe someone else can help.

Hello,
Well, this is really a shot in the dark given the current information... but I do want to help your lizard (if there is a problem?). None of my animals currently exhibit this kind of behavior unless there is an insect or anole moving over their body. Examine the lizard closely to rule out parasites... If this is not the situation, then check your humidity. Sometimes I was led (by watching mine in the past) to believe that shedding can be an uncomfortable but necessary function of their body- dry air makes it worse- (shedding only appeared uncomfortable when my humidity sucked...bad) Review all of these possibilities and hopefully you will find your answer. If it is none of these, then for your lizards comfort, I hope you will receive more usable advice. Best to you- Mike

I think FR hit the nail on the head on another forum. Splinters from the cypress. Seems very logical.