...now I have to make some sort of post.
First, the disclaimer...I've had a few animals a couple of years, which is enough to teach me I know very little of varanids. It's hard to post when I'm not sure I'm taking care of my own animals properly.
A large cage is nice, it gives the person more room to put stuff of interest in there for the monitors. But if its just empty space, you're no better off than a tiny cage. This is just my opinion and all, but feeling superior because you achieved some number (6, 8, or 10 foot cage) is really dumb. A big cage does not always equal good care. It just gives you the potential.
Build as big as you can.
With plywood conviently coming in 8 by 4 sheets, I think this is the most economical size for the non-carpenter. You're not wasting wood or have to do a lot of math. Just my opinion, again.
I don't mist my enclosures at all and the animals rarely. If I do, its because they like it; they lean into the spray and smile.
I would definitely use FRP, shower stall sheeting if you want a waterproofed cage. That will save you a lot of trouble. I live in a pretty humid area already, so I have no clue if they like humidity or not.
They do seem to enjoy baths. They can hold their breath a long time, and see and smell underwater. My opinion is, water provides a sense of security for a shy BRN, and amusement for a relaxed one.
I have noticed firmer stools if I am lax on the baths. Mine get tub time twice a week, maybe. I have no schedule, all the animals here get fed when I remember/feel like it. Except the baby lizards. They get fresh water and food daily.
My male is around five feet, and would be over if not for the lost 3 inches of tail. The tailtip was withered and brittle when I got him, and is likely a sign of stress. I've never heard of a 6 foot BRN, 3 to 5 feet is the most often quoted range.
Females generally are smaller/grow slower because energy is put towards egg production instead of body growth.
Mine still like crickets as adults, but thank goodness I'm not feeding that or I couldn't afford to keep them. Mine eat mice. And other stuff now and again, when I clean out my fridge. Amounts of food will vary constantly. It all depends what is going on in that lizard's life at that time. You can't really portion or schedule their food like a dog or cat because its a sensitive reptile that can change its metabolism. For example, my male is now fatter on less food than he was eating a year ago. Its my job to find out why and correct it.
I can't explain it any clearer, after two years I'm still learning how to feed mine.
My cages are just boxes, plywood boxes that anyone can make. Its the insides that count, and mine aren't good yet. The animals said so.
bdking is a persistant kid, I'll take some full body shots of my female being held tomorrow, a friend is coming over.
D.
