Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi,

What is the minimum cage size that a Dumeril Monitor can live comfortably in during it's 1st year? Please speak in terms of dimensions as opposed to gallons.

Thanks in advance
Jeff

First of all understand this there is no minimum cage size for any monitor of any size or age. When your dum is full-grown make your cage as big as you can. They need all the room they can get so please don’t follow the "minimum" size cage rule. A cage that’s too small can lead to problems.

Anyway on to your question. Assuming you're starting out with a hatchling I will answer with what I have done. I have used a cage that’s 30x12x12. They’re the glass aquariums with a custom top. This won't last long so you have to keep going bigger. I have always started to build custom cages after my dums have out grown the glass aquariums. Good luck.

Mike

First, thanks for your reply. When you say that 30x12x12 won't last long are you referring to the first year (from hatchling) or less?

On a side note, I am very much aware that just about any starter enclosure for any reptile would need to make way for a larger one at some point in the reptiles life. I was asking this for two reasons.

1. For security, it's normally beneficial for any reptile to start out with a smaller enclosure.
2. Personally, I do not have the room right now that I will in 8-12 months. This will affect my decision to purchase one now or wait.

I just want a more detailed idea of whats ahead. Most care sheets only discuss the cage dimensions for a full grown reptile.

Thanks again
Jeff