My New Sav.

[LORI34205]

HI i just got a baby savvanah from my local pet store and ive done a lot of research on them but.....when i fed him he went in his cave and keeps going back in when i get him out,he basks somewhat in his heat lamp but he doesnt bask long he just goes in his cave.
anyone know why he would do this?or is this normal

[Steeve B]

yes its normal, thats his safe heven, when hes in there, try to leave him alone, we shod never disturb a lizard in his retreat.
good luck and have fun!
Rgds

[LORI34205]

thanks for the info,when he goes in his cave he just goes to sleep and thats were he spends most of his day.Im thinking i may have overfed him a little,not sure.i fed him 6 or 7 crickets lastnight,hes about 7 inches long.

[Steeve B]

It’s not easy to judge if he eats too much or not, it depends on many factors as digestion is affected by heat humidity water intake, all this is crucial to your monitor’s health, I suggest you obtain a good book as you will routinely re-read chapters on husbandry and adjust when necessary, try Ravi’s new book on your specie.
Honestly I think keeping varanids starts with a good base, and then the net can offer additional information. Rgds

[markb]

This is what baby V. exanthematicus do in the wild, and he/she is doing it here in your home too - get Daniel Bennett & Ravi Thakoordyal book, Savanna Monitors, as it will help you ALOT with your new exanthematicus and answer alot of your questions....leave the lizard alone when it is in its cave, as that is its security place and it should have 1 place where it feel 100% secure and not hassled by anyone/anything....
good luck,
markb

[LORI34205]

ok thanks everyone,if you have anyother suggestions lemme hear em