Reptile & Amphibian Forums

There seems to be a bit of a lull in activity(forum) so now is a good a time as any to post this question. Many variables yes but I am willing to stretch on the outside chance it could work. This may sound irresponsible/naive but I have to ask.

Next week I start a job out East( Pine Barrens...God is kind) that will require 2 weeks every month in AZ. I have thought about all the creative ways one could maintain their monitors(gilleni are first choice) and am drawing a blank. Likely its a pipe dream but has anyone out there found suitable ways to maintain their monitors when they are not "in house". Again I know this seems more about my "wants"/selfish desires to keep lizards...heck yes I am rabib about "the minitures", But of course one has to meet the animals needs and it sucks this may be impossible. Lastly, I would like to say (and its a driver behind this question) that to some degree I wonder/fear that some of these monitors will no longer be availible and I may miss the window to get involved with some species. cheers, big ears.

Years ago, I spend much of the year in the field, all the while breeding the very monitors you speak of.

And of course many more species. In fact one year, I produced offspring of 18 species, while spending several one month periods in the field.

You need help. Basically food and water. My help sucked at knowing if they laid eggs and mostly missed all clutches.

Once I left with a group of Gilleni(young animals) gravid, at least four females. When I got back, all were dead or gone(?) but there was two clutches of eggs in the cage. They hatched and carried on the line.

Most cases, the animals were fine. My help only did the minimum.

If your animals are not gravid, then make it easier on your temporary keepers, drop the temps to highs in the 90's and the monitors will do fine, and not complicate the situation by breeding. They will also consume less food and their water needs will be less. Good luck and what part of AZ. Cheers

Thanks for answering. After thinking more I realise it is really too broad a question. Likely, I'll have to wait and see how things go. Thanks for the heads up on the day to day stuff. If that is kept simple there may be luck down the road.The egg thing would drive me nuts as i would like to breed. Looks like I may have to recruit some friends(locals) down the road. cheers, big ears.

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