Reptile & Amphibian Forums

i really want to get some kind of monitor, im not new to reptiles ive been keeping them for about the last 7-8 years of my life.

i was wondering what a good choice of monitor would be.

i dont really want to go and get a monitor that costs alot (under 300$ is the price range im looking for).

im really interested in white throat monitors and black throat monitors and savvys.

what would be a good choice to the beginner monitor keeper. i know these lizards need huge cages and eat an enormous amount of food but those arent really problems for me not to be able to handle. so if you guys/girls could suggest a good beginner monitor for me that would be greatly appreciated. thanks

thank you!!!

Is there some reason you aren't considering a small monitor or couple of monitors like ackies?

They are simply amazing, fun, easy, and beautiful little animals that don't need all the "huge cages" and "enormous amounts of food." With the Sav being the exception you can easily find ackies for what you would pay for a good white or black throat (albig).

I personally don't believe that any monitor is better for beginners. Pick what you like and work hard with it

Later, Gene

.. then the large monitors you listed will cost you way more in food, caging, heating, and cage furnishings than a smaller one.

It is the other way around, if you have a ton of money, get the 30 dollar sav or nile. If you have to set a price range, then go for something smaller, like ackies, tristis, timors, black trees etc.

When asking about temperaments, generalities are all you'll get. No guarantees that all members of a certain species will be "nice". Most ackies are said to be pleasant, but there could be some out there that think they are Godzilla. My friend has a cute bearded dragon that will kick your a**.
I think not too many people have had/worked with all the species to be able to make a comparison for you. We all think the monitor species that we have, is great. You would get farther in your search for a monitor, if you decided on a species or two that fit your other criteria (looks, size, availability, price), then ask specifically about that species' temperament.

Kudos to you for thinking before getting one.
D.

One of my first reptiles was a Bosc monitor and these do not grow into a huge monsters, although a large cage will be needed.
I could not tell you the exact price tag for these wonderful creatures but it is one of the easier kept of the monitor species.

Cheers steve
Link