Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm interested in getting a Timor Monitor, but I need a little info on their natural history and care. Is it true that these are arboreal lizards? So, would I need a tall cage or long cage or does it matter? And could I feed it on a diet of crickets, mealworms, pinkies, and cooked chicken? Do they like to swim? Would I need to provide a large water container so it could spend time soaking/swimming? And any information at all on these monitors would be greatly appreciated!

~Adam
-----
0.0.1 Western Painted Turtle
0.0.1 Mexican Red Wood Turtle
0.0.2 Chapias Giant Musk Turtles
0.0.1 Northern Diamondback Terrapin
0.0.1 Alligator Snapping Turtle
1.0.0 Royal Python (Ball Python)
0.0.1 California Kingsnake
0.0.1 Mali Uromastyx

Dictionary definition: Varanus Timorensis; Shy, skittish, privacy loving varanids.
They, like most Varanids will climb if givin the chance. They need as many hides as possible, in all areas of their enclosure(again something I think most Varanids need). I havent seen mine be very fond of spending any length of time in their water. I see them use it for drinking, but it never gets soiled the way my Indicus or Niloticus's water gets.
I rarely see them out n about, and the only time I can interact with them is at feeding time. The Male takes mice from my fingers, but I have to "fish" for him, by dangeling the mouse near the openings of his hides. Never fails to give me a little rush of excitement when he yanks it from my fingertips. -Of course Ive always been easily amused by my critters!

Timors are not a good choice for someone who wants to be interactive with their pet. Ackies are a more suitable choice for those "needs".

Good luck! -And good decision about investivating, BEFORE buying!

Best Regards,
Michelle

I've seen mine in his water twice in two years, so I'd make the dish large enough to give them the option. Mine's on a 100% rodent diet now, but he won't eat crickets like I've heard most will.
-----
Peter: It's OK, I'll handle it. I read a book about something like this.
Brian: Are you sure it was a book? Are you sure it wasn't NOTHING?

just thought i would add that contery to most of the timors people see, my two lil babies just stay out all the time chase there food around with me there, bask out all day etc etc,

dont seem nearly as skittish as i had expected.

if could post a pic i would but i cant, im dreadfull with comps

Are yours CB or WC? Mine's LTC but I'd bet CB ones are a lot less skittish.
-----
Peter: It's OK, I'll handle it. I read a book about something like this.
Brian: Are you sure it was a book? Are you sure it wasn't NOTHING?

they are indeed lil CB babies