Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Still considering a monitor, and have come to this conclusion: I love the look of the big monitors (Niles, Black throats, White throats, etc.) but just will not have the room for one of those massive things. Can anyone recommend the "toy" version as it would be of one of the larger species, and include pics and any helpful links if available. Thanks for your time.......

One more thing I forgot.....I want the tamest monitor possible in this size range...thanks for looking!

how small of a monitor are you looking for? size limit? im no expert, but here is a start:

http://www.kingsnake.com/monitorfaq/species.htm
http://www.reptilemall.com/caresheets/varanids.html

those links provide very gen info on monitor species' sizes and cage req'ments. while there are smaller or "toy" species that are legal to purchase, they are VERY expensive to initially aquire. but you probly already know this. though even with smaller species, the animal still requires a very large cage.

Ackies, or Ridge-tailed Monitor, Varanus acanthurus are fairly small, 2 feet approx.
http://www.kingsnake.com/monitorfaq/species.htm#7.1

if you dont find a monitor species as small as you like, Tegus are very "monitor-like" in some ways, and more managable in size (of the actual animal). they do still require ample cage space. Tegus also usually have a better temperament, but just a generalization.

hope the links are a helpful start. something else, once you find a suitalbe species, do research on breeders of such exotic species, before you spend alot of money. the small species you are looking for are sometimes hundreds of dollars for a hatchling. good luck!
~Kelsaurian

I WAS going to recommend a Timor, because they look almost exactly like a baby nile, head shape, color, and everything. However, the odds of taming one are pretty low.

With tons of bad attitude to boot. Timors are prettier but Id not suggest one, they dislike people.

Well, as of right now Ackies are my main choice. As far as size goes, I'd like something that stays at the lower end of the 3 foot range, something like 2-3 feet would be perfect. Price doesnt really matter that much, and I can build a cage any size I need for next to nothing, so I'm not limited on housing it either. I just want a "strong" looking monitor that's small and tame, if that's possible. Thanks again for looking..........

I have no experience with Ackies (Yet) But I have looked at them as a possibility for an addition to my WT for just the reasons you are stating.( Size, color, look,etc)
Look around at some of the breeders and the reptile shows they are great. I like it best when I can handle or at least see how hard to handle a reptile is before I decide to get it. Check for reptile expoes in your area they are great fun and great deals for reptiles you might be looking for.
DAvid...