Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am a biology teacher and a big herp fan, and have decided that I want a monitor for a "class pet". I don't intend for it to be handled by my kids, except maybe some supervised petting. I have experience with bearded dragons and a variety of snakes (red-tail boa, rainbow boa, ball python, etc.)

My biggest concern is size, because I have limited space in my room. I can build an enclosure that is about 3'x6' and at least 3' tall. Much bigger would be tough.

What species would be best suited to these conditions?

EDIT:

I am leaning toward a red ackie (or pair of ackies), but I think that the adults might be a tad small, whereas a savannah or blackthroat might be a tad large.

I would go with Ackies. The reason isn't the size which of course if a plus, but is the fact that they become very visable animals. They are out and about quite a bit; however, do have quite a degree of personality from my experiance.

I have a male who comes out on his own and others that will not dare to be touched, but all come out and about for quite a bit during the day.

To your last post, arrange to have it shipped.

Cheers,
Mike.

I agree, Ackies would be the best choice all around. And you would ship them spot to spot, not drive them. Shipping is overnight, safe, quick and easy.
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robyn@proexotics.com

ShipYourReptiles.com
Pro Exotics Reptiles

I do like the shipping idea except....

The monitor will beat me to my destination. I wonder which one of my friends will be ok with receiving a large lizard in the mail and caring for it for a couple days. It would be funny to send it to my mom, except it might be bad for her health, not to mention the monitor.

Ive never owned an ackie but from what I do know about them they would be the best choice as the rock monitors I work with both V.Glauerti and V. Pilbarensis would be to fragile if handled. The best advise is whatever your species choice is try and buy a simgle male because females will still cycle infertile eggs if you end up with one, for a single pet it only opens up another door of potential problems for you. Good luck and hope you and the children can enjoy the monitor.
Bob
www.herphatch.com