Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have not got a monitor yet, however I know I don't want an Ackie.
I have had a large pissy iguana in the past so know I can handle large agressive Lizards. I was thinking about getting an Argus, Black roughneck or a Blackthroat. Does anyone know from experience, which is a better captive. I think they are all beautiful Lizards but was just looking for keeper opinion.
Thanks.

I don't think its a matter of "being able to handle large aggressive lizards"...its a matter of being able to provide for them. What are you looking for out of a monitor lizard?

I am really looking for a monitor of medium build with a great personality Ie.. interactive and Inquisitive and that is capable of being handled on a regular basis. I currently have a fairly large cage that is about 6'h * 5'w * 3'd I believe that accomadationg a monitor there will not be a problem. I build all of my own cages because I also have large Spilotes from SA.

Not sure I can envision the size of your cage but since you build your own you'll be able to take direction from FR who has built cages professionally for institutions. On the regular handling it depends on individuals(monitor) personality. You mentioned green ig. so I am sure you have seen some that really seem to like people and others that flip out. Med build, personality, ect.. makes me think Argus. Plus, they are captive born and it seems alot are having success with them(breeding,which means they do well). There are some really qualified people here on this forum(not me)...likely you'll get all the answers you need. Good luck,zak.

For a medium sized monitor with lots of personality (really most of them) and a fairly laid back disposition (or so I've heard)(for a monitor), I was thinking maybe dumeril's. I haven't kept this species myself, so I can't give you any first hand experience, but captive bred specimens are supposed to be great monitors. Check out roughneckmonitors dot com for info and maybe a captive bred baby.

About handling, I wouldn't suggest getting any species with the mentality of being able to handle it. You may, or you may not. It depends on the individual, and the specific situation it's in. If you want something to handle and hold for long periods (a lap dog), well, I'd suggest a dog. But I would not suggest any reptile (especially monitors) for somebody wanting a loving, cuddly pet. But if you want animals that, if left alone, will put on a show and make you laugh almost everyday, then maybe monitors are for you. You can still interact (they are really good for food conditioning and such) with them and touch them if you like, but don't expect them to be a lap animal.

Cheers,
Ryan

What's wrong with ackies?

Cheers,
Ryan