Monitor intelligence?

[DragnDrop]

I don't have monitors, but I've read a number of posts here and have a curiosity type question.

If monitors need to be entertained, does that mean they're more intelligent than your average reptile? Seems to me that boredom is a downfall of intelligence, or am I wrong? I'm not saying they have a measurable IQ, but from what I've read, they would seem to be one of the brighter bulbs on the string?

(No Jon, don't even think of sending me pictures of your monitors... as much as you'd love to torture me with more pictures LOL. I really, really don't have room. I'd have to get one of my daughters to move out first so I can use her bedroom if I add anything that needs a big enclosure like they do. ... on second thought, maybe that's not so bad? :rolleyes: )

[NiagaraReptiles]

See that's why you just need to stick with the little guys.......None of the species I keep now are over 24" total length and even that makes them sound bigger than they really are :)


I do strongly believe monitors are more intelligent than they are given credit for (by some). When kept in social groups, the reactions and interactions to/with cagemates is very interesting to watch. They have a very inquisitive nature as well, and show evidence of the ability to learn.

JonK

[V.hb]

My male albigularus (blackthroated monitor) has learned how to unlock his cage... I think thats something to think about as far as intellect goes.

[Bartman]

Ive heard of people teaching them to come to you as a dog would...it supposed to be because they think there getting food..you could say there name or you could say mushi mushi and they'll come thinking there getting food..ive yet to see this proven though

[CHRISANDBOIDS14]

Well mine is sort of like that. When i feed him i put the food into a little container and stick in in the cage and dump it in. Whenever he sees the container he will come running over and sometimes he takes crikets right outa the air. When i put my hand in he just sits there. It does make some sense. They can be taught things. I dont know about names, i just say "Hey bud!" to mine.

[V.hb]

There was a story on KS a long time ago, of a girl and her mangrove monitor. Apparently she had it trained to know when its feeding time by making a noise every time the animal was to feed. Wether thats actually true or not is beyond me, i haven't tried it.. Quite interesting however.

But as far as intellect goes, I personally think they're quite up there.

[NiagaraReptiles]

Names can be complex, and being that Monitors don't naturally use sound and any sort of identification, I think the capabilities there are limited.
I do see a huge response from my little guys, particularly the Red Ackies when the hear the sound of cricktes shaking around int he dusting container. I'm quite sure they have learned to associate that sound with chow time. They will run out and stand up and thier back legs stretching for the top of the cage and me staring down at them :)
This is the only time they seem to like me.........the rest of the time they hate me something fierce. Liitle jerks ;)

JonK