Hi, My name's Matt and I've never really posted anything here before. I recently came across kingsnake.com, and after some navigation I located these forums.
It really amazed me to see all of the numerous Monitor keepers sharing pictures, and stories of their beautiful babies.
I'd personally call myself a "newbie" when it comes to Monitor keeping, but I've been a herp enthusiast since early childhood. My lone personal experience with Monitors has come with my little (hah) bundle of joy named Owen. (this is despite my encounters in the workplace)
Owen's a bosc and was hatched in July of 2002, and since that time has provided me with countless hours of entertainment and education. When compared to most reptiles I've owned, Owen's personality is amazing, and very distinct.
As a baby, he was your typical headstrong savannah. But has since mellowed out, and no longer attempts to bite or tail whip. Occasionally he'll spout off with a warning hiss, but that's generally only after he's eaten. I let him wander my dorm room on a weekly basis, and he's even got his little place. (right outside my cane toad tank, peering inside in anticipation of a meal?)
I have a few questions about owen -
He's kept in a 5ft long, 2.5 high, and 3.5 wide custom terrarium. 120 degree basking spot (ceramic bulb)...85 standard temp (2 60 watt dayglo bulbs) with the cool end reaching maybe 70. 4-5 inches of substrate (fir bark), plenty of hiding spots, and appears to be content. (doesn't attempt escapes etc.)
He soaks twice a week in a large rubbermaid container, and gets an occasional misting as a bath. He's an EXCELLENT eater and since July has grown almost 24 inches in length...he's at 30 inches or so now. As a baby he was eating 90 dusted crickets a week, and the occasional pinkie or fuzzy mouse. Now he's eating 3 adult mice a week, small rat every sunday and gets crix twice a week.
Anything I can to enhance his experience, besides perhaps a larger enclosure?
I'll get some pics soon, as I don't have access to a camera as of now.
Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Matt
