Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Okay, my attempt to start a thread on V. melinus flopped. So how about anyone with either V. indicus or V. doreanus? Anyone keeping either of these species that would like to share something about them?

Thanks, Gene

I posted on your melinus post. I would feel bad for you if you got bit by a doreanus trying to hold it.

I completely understand

How about V. yuwonoi? They are the sister group to V. doreanus if that counts. Since you didn't ask any specific questions, I'll just mention some of the biggest issues I've had with them. They get large, they are extremely shy, and they are one of the worst "pet" monitors you can get. Of all the species I've kept, this group is the most difficult to work with. This goes for many of the Indonesian "mangrove" monitors including V. doreanus. The caging requirements for these species are outside the range of most keepers and those that do have them typically focus on only one aspect of their lifestyles while neglecting the others. They dig, climb, and swim which means tall cages with deep substrate and enough room for a pond. If you want to keep one of these species properly, plan on giving up plenty of room for a large cage and be prepared for a lizard that you may not see except for short glimpses as they run for cover.

This group of lizards is one of my favorites, but they are not for everyone. Better yet, they are not even for most monitor keepers.