Savannah Monitor enclosure build (pics)

[bowdenmx]

hi guys. Been a while since ive posted. Hope you all had a great christmas and happy new year. Well i finally started building my savs enclosure yesterday :) got quite a bit done today also as i was off work. Any feed back welcome good or bad, i will update the thread as the build progresses. Also im looking for links/ideas on what i can seal the inside with. i cant use varnish as the wife is pregnant and with it being in the dining room and no way to seal it off from the living room the fumes would stink for weeks. so anything that doesnt smell or cures quickly. cheers guys hope you enjoy.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/076_zpsa574b565.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/077_zps1558bac7.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/078_zpsead80cca.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/079_zps71fb10a7.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/080_zps33fdc14f.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/081_zpse3cbacab.jpg

[dinosaurdammit]

I used this stuff:

satin
Varathane
no odor
Polyurethane
(fast drying)
ultimate durability & scratch restance
HEAVY USE FORMULA
easy soap & water clean up
{interior}
(water based) (http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-100169146/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&keyword=Varathane&storeId=10051)

It cured quickly and didnt have a high fume issue- if you paint a little at a time you can avoid the smell. Cracking the window wouldnt hurt and it tends to dry in under 30 mins.

[infernalis]

two part resin, mix it like epoxy, paint it on, fast curing...

http://www.varanid.us/enclosures/resin.jpg

[Gungirl]

I wouldn't use either of the above in a house with a pregnant wife unless you could air it out well..

I use Vermont natural coatings. It is made from whey and has almost zero odor. It is very safe and effective. I did my wood floors with it as well as all my vivs. I have heard from other people that use it on a much larger scale and it is top notch stuff.


Vermont Natural Coatings polywhey products (http://www.vermontnaturalcoatings.com/our-products/)

[bowdenmx]

I wouldn't use either of the above in a house with a pregnant wife unless you could air it out well..

I use Vermont natural coatings. It is made from whey and has almost zero odor. It is very safe and effective. I did my wood floors with it as well as all my vivs. I have heard from other people that use it on a much larger scale and it is top notch stuff.


Vermont Natural Coatings polywhey products (http://www.vermontnaturalcoatings.com/our-products/)


Sounds good. ill look into it.
Thankyou. :)

[Gungirl]

Your welcome, Let me know if you have any issues getting it.

[Terranaut]

Very impressive so far.

[jarich]

hi guys. Been a while since ive posted. Hope you all had a great christmas and happy new year. Well i finally started building my savs enclosure yesterday :) got quite a bit done today also as i was off work. Any feed back welcome good or bad, i will update the thread as the build progresses. Also im looking for links/ideas on what i can seal the inside with. i cant use varnish as the wife is pregnant and with it being in the dining room and no way to seal it off

Hahahaha, love it! Would have been fun to be a fly on the wall during that conversation...

"You want to put what in the dining room?! How big is it going to be?!" :D

[Mark Taylor]

Looks like a bedroom to me but hay that does not matter. Looks like you know what your doing and good luck, it looks great :). Can you put prices of the materials used so we can work out the total cost or am I being cheeky and had I had to much to drink, (posting what comes to my head and not thinking)

[bowdenmx]

Looks like a bedroom to me but hay that does not matter. Looks like you know what your doing and good luck, it looks great :). Can you put prices of the materials used so we can work out the total cost or am I being cheeky and had I had to much to drink, (posting what comes to my head and not thinking)

Hahaha. not cheeky at all. im an electrician so work onsite with alot of materials floating about so that helps loads :) n yea it does kinda look like a bedroom from that angle but on the other side is a desk with the laptop ect on it and a table and four chairs. yea your right on the convo we had. kinda just said yeah itl be about this big lol. built it n she walked in after work today like. "You never said it was that big?!!. oh well its up now". saweeeeet ;p

[Mark Taylor]

LOL mate going to get my head down now got work in the morning. Thank god for spell check or the> mesage would hve read like this lol. Nice work once again.

[Philmul]

Looks like a bedroom to me but hay that does not matter. Looks like you know what your doing and good luck, it looks great :). Can you put prices of the materials used so we can work out the total cost or am I being cheeky and had I had to much to drink, (posting what comes to my head and not thinking)

Trouble is he might not want his wife to find out the cost. Lol

[Philmul]

Oh I love the viv. You certainly know what your doing. I like making my own

[Mark Taylor]

I was hoping it would be finished by now?:D

[DiscoPat]

It looks great. I can't wait until I can build Steve a larger cage in the living room or dining room, It will have to be after my roommates move out though.

How large is it?

[bowdenmx]

I wish it was finished lol. Working quite alot now so may not get to much done. It is 4ft high by 9ft wide by 3.5 feet deep.

[DiscoPat]

That is a nice sized enclosure. I did mine 8x4x4 because it makes the plywood cutting minimal. And when you can only use a saw for 1 day you need to get it all done at once.

So do you have Savannah now or are you building the enclosure and buying a baby to grow up in it once it is all set up.

[bowdenmx]

That is a nice sized enclosure. I did mine 8x4x4 because it makes the plywood cutting minimal. And when you can only use a saw for 1 day you need to get it all done at once.

So do you have Savannah now or are you building the enclosure and buying a baby to grow up in it once it is all set up.

Where im getting my wood from they cut it to what ever size you nead so thats a bonus. Ive been keeping reptiles now for over 15 years and ive allways wanted a monitor. been doing tons of research on them for the past year and am finaly in our new house so im able to get one. im building the enclosure and then when temps ect are stable i shall begin the hunt for my sav. :)

[DiscoPat]

That is the right way to do it. Once you get your sav make sure to upload pictures. I can't wait to see the finished enclosure.

[bowdenmx]

That is the right way to do it. Once you get your sav make sure to upload pictures. I can't wait to see the finished enclosure.

Will do man. cant wait :)

[Lankyrob]

Where im getting my wood from they cut it to what ever size you nead so thats a bonus. Ive been keeping reptiles now for over 15 years and ive allways wanted a monitor. been doing tons of research on them for the past year and am finaly in our new house so im able to get one. im building the enclosure and then when temps ect are stable i shall begin the hunt for my sav. :)

Kudos kudos kudos :)

[Pirarucu]

Ive been keeping reptiles now for over 15 years and ive allways wanted a monitor. been doing tons of research on them for the past year and am finaly in our new house so im able to get one. im building the enclosure and then when temps ect are stable i shall begin the hunt for my sav. :)I love this post. You had better post plenty of pics!

[bowdenmx]

got a bit more of the build done today so i thought id share the progress :)

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130115_121429_zpsccb1a731.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130115_121520_zps6c6a93ef.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130115_123523_zps4dd60799.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130115_134912_zps51531721.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130115_160914_zpsfb7f3374.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130115_161015_zps8396b291.jpg

[Lankyrob]

Looking awesome! :)

[DiscoPat]

Wow that is really looking awesome!

[bowdenmx]

Thanks guys. im realy pleased with the progress so far. Im hoping to get the rest of the wood work done this sat. :)

[Pirarucu]

Loving it!

[varanus_mad]

Cool stuff there mate.

if you know anyone in the window trade you could probably get a second handd double glazed unit for next to nout

[infernalis]

Cool stuff there mate.

if you know anyone in the window trade you could probably get a second handd double glazed unit for next to nout

If you know someone in the demolition trade, you can get all sorts of stuff for free.

it was too late, but I know a guy who just smashed a huge pile of sliding glass doors just to cash in on the scrap aluminum frames.

[varanus_mad]

If you know someone in the demolition trade, you can get all sorts of stuff for free.

it was too late, but I know a guy who just smashed a huge pile of sliding glass doors just to cash in on the scrap aluminum frames.


Yup really cool stuff you can get of them.

[bowdenmx]

Update.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv1.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv5.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv4.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv2.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv3.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv7.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv8.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv9.jpg

[bowdenmx]

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv6.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv10.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv11.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/Viv12.jpg

[Lankyrob]

Love it, love it, love it!! :)

[marvelfreak]

Looks sweet.

[infernalis]

That is a very nice build....

[bowdenmx]

got a lil more done tnite. i got the locks on and all new brass hinges to match. also got the beading in on the right door ready for the glass to go in and be sealed. now id like opinions on what im thinking now. Originally i wanted the trap door ramp and 2 opening doors on hinges. im now thinking have the hinged door on the right the ramp door as it is and mayb in the middle have normal sliding glass as you would on a normal viv. got the option of all three then for acess and i dont have to faf makin another door and beading it ect. what you guys rekon? Pics below.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130120_192644.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130120_192543.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130120_192708.jpg

[Pirarucu]

I love this.

[Lankyrob]

Do you NEED a door in the middle or would just a straight pain of glass work? Just thinking less openings= less "leaks"? :)

[infernalis]

Just please remember to seal the wood first before you put anything in there, That is such a sweet build, I would hate to see it deteriorate from wood rot.

[infernalis]

Do you NEED a door in the middle or would just a straight pain of glass work? Just thinking less openings= less "leaks"? :)

Good eye Rob, I'm sure some rubber door seals ( draught excluder ) would work ace in keeping the leaks at bay.

[Lankyrob]

Good eye Rob, I'm sure some rubber door seals ( draught excluder ) would work ace in keeping the leaks at bay.

With our vivs we had to switch the sliding doors around so that the draught from the patio doors wasnt blowing straight into the vivs, i noticed an immediate decline in my electric bills after i did it. Knowing how well sealed your viv is sliding doors just sounded like a no no. :)

[bowdenmx]

Do you NEED a door in the middle or would just a straight pain of glass work? Just thinking less openings= less "leaks"? :)

Hmmm now why didnt i think of that lol. thats a damb good idea. and like you said. would mean less leaks :)

dont worrie infernalis i am going to seal all of the inside with yacht varnish (lots of coats) and aquarium sealent.

[Lankyrob]

Hmmm now why didnt i think of that lol. thats a damb good idea. and like you said. would mean less leaks :)

dont worrie infernalis i am going to seal all of the inside with yacht varnish (lots of coats) and aquarium sealent.

Does that mean i get to visit the finished project when i am down your way in holiday? :)

[infernalis]

May I feature this build on Savannahmonitor.net?

it's that good.

[bowdenmx]

May I feature this build on Savannahmonitor.net?

it's that good.

Of coarse you can mate that would be amazing. i love your site :)
Ben bowdens the name if ya wanted to throw that in there lmao ;)
And sure thing rob :D

[infernalis]

people are always asking me how to build cages, and your step by step picture journal saves me a lot of time.

[bowdenmx]

people are always asking me how to build cages, and your step by step picture journal saves me a lot of time.

Sure thing mate. your more than welcome.

[bowdenmx]

Anyone ever used this to seal there vivs?
Paints, Coatings & Primers, Bonda G4 Damp & Pond Sealers, G4 Pond Sealer , - CFS Fibreglass Supplies (http://www.cfsnet.co.uk/acatalog/CFS_Catalogue__G4_Pond_Sealer__519.html)

[AjaMichelle]

Great enclosure! :) I can't wait to see the finished product! :)

[bowdenmx]

Little update. got the first coat.of stain on the outside of the enclosure tnite.
http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130125_203512.jpg

[AjaMichelle]

That looks awesome! :)

[dinosaurdammit]

Anyone ever used this to seal there vivs?
Paints, Coatings & Primers, Bonda G4 Damp & Pond Sealers, G4 Pond Sealer , - CFS Fibreglass Supplies (http://www.cfsnet.co.uk/acatalog/CFS_Catalogue__G4_Pond_Sealer__519.html)

No but i do use concrete sealer because I put about an inch of the stuff on the bottom of anything I build- holds heat well and if you seal it right it will NEVER leak.

i should specify i use pool sealant.

[Mark Taylor]

One of the best enclosures I have seen and can,t wait to see it all finished with your Savannah Monitor inside, its going to love it.

Keep the updates coming mate well done.

[bowdenmx]

One of the best enclosures I have seen and can,t wait to see it all finished with your Savannah Monitor inside, its going to love it.

Keep the updates coming mate well done.

Thanks man.means alot. second coat of stain on now.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130126_155056.jpg

[Terranaut]

Wow. It looks fantastic. Thanks so much for sharing.

[bowdenmx]

I fitted the glass in the door today. cant fit the viewing window glass untill its all sealed tho.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130127_145654.jpg

[Mark Taylor]

That's coming along nicely sir.

[Philmul]

What vents are you putting inside and are you keeping the inside that colour. I did mine in OSB and I thought it looks smart in a dark brown as it looks a good background.

[infernalis]

What vents are you putting inside and are you keeping the inside that colour. I did mine in OSB and I thought it looks smart in a dark brown as it looks a good background.

Don't want vents on a Bosc enclosure.

Vents let the dirt dry out.

[bowdenmx]

Don't want vents on a Bosc enclosure.

Vents let the dirt dry out.

Was just going to say that. haha.

[Mark Taylor]

Hows the build going mate?

[bowdenmx]

Hows the build going mate?

Hey man. errm in a word.... slowley lol. tight on cash at the mo as i have just gone self employed last month. so as soon as the moneys coming back in i can get the resin to seal it then start thinking about lights and substrate ect. so hopfully when work picks up in the next few weeks i can crack on again :)

[bowdenmx]

rite oh, little update. works picking up nice and steady now so the cash is starting to flow back in again. vivs just been sat there for a few weeks much to my discust lol. today i got some handles or the doors and got some draw wires in for all the electrics. cleaned it all out and wiped it all down ready to be sealed this coming weekend with epoxy http://www.reptileforums.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/thumbup.gif then the fun bit can start. http://www.reptileforums.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smileys/mf_dribble.gif

[Mark Taylor]

Hope your still taking pics of each step. really cant wait to see it mate.

[bowdenmx]

Hope your still taking pics of each step. really cant wait to see it mate.
yeah man im still taking pics as i go. just not done enough to warrent any at the mo lol.

[bowdenmx]

rite, at long last ive finsly got the 2 part epoxy. i got it in grey with a free mixing paddle and mixin buckets and sweet talked the bird for 15% off it to lol. dont ask dont get eyh. so i will seal the enclosure this weekend.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130308_171835_zpsb6c3df1f.jpg

[bowdenmx]

First coat of epoxy on today. unfortunatly i had a total mind blank and forgot id sealed the gaps with aquarium sealant as i was building it and obviosly the epoxy hasnt taken to that. where there isnt epoxy its sealed anyway so should be ok. if not ill have to try and remove it all before the second coat. stupid man :sad:
http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130309_173700_zps150f426e.jpg
http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130309_173738_zpsdba70c43.jpg

[infernalis]

looking really good.

[Mark Taylor]

Glad to see you getting on with it. If it was me (The way to get the epoxy to cover the aquarium sealant) you could scrape away the excess sealer then use masking tape to cover the joints that way the epoxy would stick.

Looks great anyhow.

[bowdenmx]

Glad to see you getting on with it. If it was me (The way to get the epoxy to cover the aquarium sealant) you could scrape away the excess sealer then use masking tape to cover the joints that way the epoxy would stick.

Looks great anyhow.

Yeah that could be a plan. well im going to see how it goes i think getting it off and just go from there.

[bowdenmx]

Decided to bite the bullet and i cut out all the silicone in the joints. man that was the worst job ever! :bash: note to anyone that uses epoxy. do not seal anything till afte you have used the resin lol. Got the second coat of epoxy on and poured what has left into the bottom of the enclosure so itl be a nice thick layer on the bottom. i used 5 litres of epoxy. 2.5 litres per coat and there was some over on the final coat. pics below.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130310_210650_zps4623ac00.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130310_210703_zps9504ec6f.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130310_210711_zpsf5a9c9f6.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130310_210719_zpse66d8eea.jpg

[Terranaut]

Bet that smelled great :/
Looks fantastic though. Awesome job.

[bowdenmx]

Bet that smelled great :/
Looks fantastic though. Awesome job.

wasnt to bad actualy. i wore a resporator and the missis went up stairs. i did it late eve so that it could cure over night. smell was totaly gone by the morning. good stuff. and has cured rock solid. the bottom is like glass.

[bowdenmx]

got the strip light fitted today :)

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130323_225126_zps3c70d41c.jpg

[Philmul]

What are you using to heat it

[bowdenmx]

What are you using to heat it

the strip light is for the uv tube to go in. i was just using that tube that came wih it to make sure it all worked ect. im in the process of making up a bank of 3 par38 lamps for basking and heat. will see what temps i get from that and go from there.

[Mark Taylor]

Looking good now getting close....:D

[bowdenmx]

got my bank of par 38's made up today :) pics of how i did it below. not long now and ill be ready to rock.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130329_163737_zps66cf9bc7.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130329_173401_zpsedb1c933.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130329_173418_zps597d9e60.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130329_174110_zps3efbbf9b.jpg

[bowdenmx]

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130329_174210_zps6979b7bd.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130329_181822_zps6a366dbb.jpg

[Mark Taylor]

Very smart way of doing it I really can't wait to see this in all it's glory, fantastic work as usual.

[bowdenmx]

Very smart way of doing it I really can't wait to see this in all it's glory, fantastic work as usual.

being a sparky helps with the electrical side of things :). thanks for the compliments mate. much appriciated :)

[Mark Taylor]

No thanks for sharing mate, to be honest that is the way I would have done it I hate seeing wires if they can be hidden.

[Pirarucu]

I like progress. Keep us posted!

[bowdenmx]

im going to move them over more to the middle though as i now realised that alot of the beam is wasted on the wall.

[murrindindi]

the strip light is for the uv tube to go in. i was just using that tube that came wih it to make sure it all worked ect. im in the process of making up a bank of 3 par38 lamps for basking and heat. will see what temps i get from that and go from there.


Hi, when you say the fluorescent tube is UV do you mean UVA/B, if yes, which type are you using? I ask because it`s usually best to have them within 25cm or less from the surface of the animal to be effective in terms of the UVB, if it`s just for supplementary lighting it would still be best lower down. Obviously I`m only going by the pics, but it looks to be around 30m to 40cm depth at the bottom for the substrate, meaning the tube would be around 80cm higher than the top of the soil/sand?
You`ve made a fine job of the build, and even better that you`ve done this before getting the monitor, well done!

[bowdenmx]

Hi, when you say the fluorescent tube is UV do you mean UVA/B, if yes, which type are you using? I ask because it`s usually best to have them within 25cm or less from the surface of the animal to be effective in terms of the UVB, if it`s just for supplementary lighting it would still be best lower down. Obviously I`m only going by the pics, but it looks to be around 30m to 40cm depth at the bottom for the substrate, meaning the tube would be around 80cm higher than the top of the soil/sand?
You`ve made a fine job of the build, and even better that you`ve done this before getting the monitor, well done!

thats for the compliments mate. i was going to use the arcadia 12% tube but im obviously open to suggestions on that. if the tube is to high when i get around to putting the substrate in then it will also be hung on chain so its the correct distance away. its on the ceiling of the viv at the moment purley so i can see better in there when im working on it realy.

[Philmul]

It's looking fab can't wait to see the monitor in his/her new home

[jarich]

While the HO T5s are a great bulb, I think there is an easier way to achieve the UVB in that enclosure and for a cheaper price. Instead of a PAR 38 in the middle bulb, why not just buy a MVB? It requires no special fixture, so you could just put it right in there. You already have the ability to raise or lower those fixtures as you need. And you would only have to spend maybe another 30 quid or so for the MVB bulb. I think thats less than half the price of the HO T5 with fixture and it gives you the same UVB output. Just a thought.

[bowdenmx]

While the HO T5s are a great bulb, I think there is an easier way to achieve the UVB in that enclosure and for a cheaper price. Instead of a PAR 38 in the middle bulb, why not just buy a MVB? It requires no special fixture, so you could just put it right in there. You already have the ability to raise or lower those fixtures as you need. And you would only have to spend maybe another 30 quid or so for the MVB bulb. I think thats less than half the price of the HO T5 with fixture and it gives you the same UVB output. Just a thought.

could be an idea mate. although i havnt yet done any tests with temps yet so ill see what im getting with the 3 lamps first and go from there. also i can get a uvb d3 tube the size of the fitting that is currently on the ceiling so i wouldnt nead to get the starter ect for it. and the tube is around £20

[murrindindi]

could be an idea mate. although i havnt yet done any tests with temps yet so ill see what im getting with the 3 lamps first and go from there. also i can get a uvb d3 tube the size of the fitting that is currently on the ceiling so i wouldnt nead to get the starter ect for it. and the tube is around £20


Hi again, or you could just use a normal household fluorescent tube for supplementary lighting, they`re even cheaper!
It`s been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that properly supported captive Varanids can lead long, healthy and productive lives without exposure to real or artificial UVB. Though there absolutely no evidence it`s harmful (or if the artificial is used, it`s according to the manufacturers instructions).

[bowdenmx]

Hi again, or you could just use a normal household fluorescent tube for supplementary lighting, they`re even cheaper!
It`s been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that properly supported captive Varanids can lead long, healthy and productive lives without exposure to real or artificial UVB. Though there absolutely no evidence it`s harmful (or if the artificial is used, it`s according to the manufacturers instructions).

hi mate. yea i have read many an article on this topic. there is allready a normal tube in the fitting allready. if the uv is to no harm the the lizard then i would use it any how for the sake of 20 quid it would do no harm. much debate as you say on the topic. anyone elses opinions on this would be great to.

[jarich]

The only problem with just putting a UVB in that present fixture is that you would have to raise a basking platform to within 12-15 inches of the bulb to get any usable UVB. Not that it would be difficult to do that, you could simply just put a big log going up close to it is all. You can get the HO fixture, which gives you an extra foot or so of exposure (24 inches or thereabouts) but again, thats an extra fixture to buy. The MVB gives the same exposure as the HOs with no need for an extra fixture.

As for whether they need it, experience seems to say no. The studies that have looked at blood serum levels in monitors have shown that the UVB does increase their Vit D3 metabolites. However, as so many generations have thrived and bred without it, the necessity of these levels is uncertain. Like you both said, I cant see how its any harm, and since it allows them to raise their metabolite levels to those of the wild relatively easily (it doesnt take much UVB exposure to get them back to normal levels) I dont see any reason not to provide it.

[infernalis]

a popup from my web site... I agree and I have several 6500K lights and a 4 foot UV 5.0 tube overhead.

http://www.varanus.us/bok/shabeer.gif

[jarich]

Cool, how did you get in contact with him Wayne? Does he keep his outside at all?

[murrindindi]

Hi Wayne, I think that piece by the South African vet is rather misleading in the sense he is NOT stating that he`s seen many cases of MBD in Varanids, neither does he give info on the conditions the animals he has treated were kept under (especially temps, humidity and diet). Looking at the photos you`ve shown of your enclosure, the UVB tube seems to be quite high and of no benefit as far as any UVB is concerned. It looks to be fixed on/near the ceiling, or have you since adjusted it to within 10 inches or less of the animals surfaces?
The most efficient UVB emitting bulbs are the metal halides, very close to natural sunlight, but quite expensive, and need an external ballast. I haven`t seen too many keepers in the private sector using them for their monitors.

[Vegasarah]

Leave the tube how it is and use it just to bring viewing light into the enclosure and pop out the middle halogen bulb and put an MVB bulb in it. It will help raise your basking temp, and it will encourage your monitor to bask with added UV! And you already have it on a chain so you can adjust the height as needed to maintain the correct basking temps! I've been thinking of a way to do this on my own build and that is actually what I plan to do. Dr. Bahoola said it well; it can't do any harm and it might do some good. :)

[bowdenmx]

sunk the hygrometers into the top of the enclosure. one at each end of the viv, looks neater and stops them slipping around and being knocked off ect.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130401_184407_zpsf704ecbf.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130401_184446_zps6d97e0e6.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130401_185327_zps99de10a0.jpg

[Mark Taylor]

This build gets better every time I look next you will have the lights activated by voice control (lights on. lights off) lol

[Mark Taylor]

What is it the rub?

[bowdenmx]

lol thanks dude. just a couple of corns in a rack sat on top mate.

[murrindindi]

Leave the tube how it is and use it just to bring viewing light into the enclosure and pop out the middle halogen bulb and put an MVB bulb in it. It will help raise your basking temp, and it will encourage your monitor to bask with added UV! And you already have it on a chain so you can adjust the height as needed to maintain the correct basking temps! I've been thinking of a way to do this on my own build and that is actually what I plan to do. Dr. Bahoola said it well; it can't do any harm and it might do some good. :)

The problem is that the self ballasted MVB`s start at 100w, they need to be at least 30cm (12inches) from the surface of the animal when basking, that means the part of the animal closest to the face of the bulb, (the head/neck when raised). That being the case, if low wattage halogens are being used (40 or 50w) they would be too far away to get a decent surface temp, I would think?
I`ve used UVB emitting bulbs for many years, but not these days (at least not for the UVB, just the heat at times), and I`ve not noticed the slightest difference in behaviour.
There are many, many keepers who repeatedly breed them successfully and for many years without the use of UVB irradiation. Like many things, this type of lighting/heating is a huge industry, so the more "they" can convince keepers their products are needed, the confusion and debate will continue!

[Vegasarah]

The problem is that the self ballasted MVB`s start at 100w, they need to be at least 30cm (12inches) from the surface of the animal when basking, that means the part of the animal closest to the face of the bulb, (the head/neck when raised). That being the case, if low wattage halogens are being used (40 or 50w) they would be too far away to get a decent surface temp, I would think?
I`ve used UVB emitting bulbs for many years, but not these days (at least not for the UVB, just the heat at times), and I`ve not noticed the slightest difference in behaviour.
There are many, many keepers who repeatedly breed them successfully and for many years without the use of UVB irradiation. Like many things, this type of lighting/heating is a huge industry, so the more "they" can convince keepers their products are needed, the confusion and debate will continue!

I thought that the 3 sockets were on a chain so they could me lowered down to 12 inches away from the basking point if it was needed? But the MVB are high wattage so maybe having it that close would also make the basking temp too hot. Then again, if it were me, I wouldn't even bother with UV lights. ;)

[bowdenmx]

lil update. :)

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_131835_zps74efa256.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_141123_zps53fcc2db.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_141130_zps8ba7998a.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_152532_zps964a47f4.jpg

nearly there now.

[jarich]

The problem is that the self ballasted MVB`s start at 100w, they need to be at least 30cm (12inches) from the surface of the animal when basking, that means the part of the animal closest to the face of the bulb, (the head/neck when raised). That being the case, if low wattage halogens are being used (40 or 50w) they would be too far away to get a decent surface temp, I would think?
I`ve used UVB emitting bulbs for many years, but not these days (at least not for the UVB, just the heat at times), and I`ve not noticed the slightest difference in behaviour.
There are many, many keepers who repeatedly breed them successfully and for many years without the use of UVB irradiation. Like many things, this type of lighting/heating is a huge industry, so the more "they" can convince keepers their products are needed, the confusion and debate will continue!

MVBs dont have to be that close to be effective, Ive got one of mine almost two feet from the basking site and it still gives off significant UVB at that distance. It does not require that much UVB to make a difference to the animal's metabolite levels. However, in this particular case, I think you could take out the bulb closest to the wall (the bulb furthest to the left in the picture) and have that be the MVB bulb. It would mean that the basking spot would get progressively hotter the closer to the wall it got, giving a gradient even within the basking platform. With a 100 watt at that height, I would think it would get up to around 160-170, which is still reasonable. The UVB would be significant at that distance too.

As for if they need it or not, youre absolutely right in saying that there are multiple generations bred already without UVB. There are also studies that show it does have a positive effect, though it may not be something visually seen. Blood serum levels of vitamin D metabolites are shown to be very low in captive animals without UVB irradiation and return to normal levels with minimal amounts of exposure to UVB. They can still breed and live without it, but its still the case that they are not as healthy as wild animals in that regard. As to what specific effect that has on them, I cant say. I still have a UVB bulb in mine though.

[bowdenmx]

basking temp is slowly rising nicely

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_165243_zps20b6d769.jpg

[Mark Taylor]

Getting excited now come on one last push. lol

Nice tat bet that stung a bit near the knuckles.

[bowdenmx]

Getting excited now come on one last push. lol

Nice tat bet that stung a bit near the knuckles.

lol. yea mate. 3 hours all on the hand. oooooouch!

[bowdenmx]

more like it :)

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_194949_zps62b55302.jpg

[Vegasarah]

Looking great, can't wait to see it all done!

[smy_749]

Looks very nice. Are you just gonna lean logs on the shelf for access or a latter of some sort?

[bowdenmx]

the substrate will come up pretty much flush with it. i put it in purley coz the wood holds the heat better on the basking spot. nead to go to the woods at some point for logs ect.

[bowdenmx]

got about 3/4 of the sand and soil mix in tonight. :)
so close i can almost taste it........... no wait, thats probs just sand!!

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130415_200506_zps2604ad21.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130415_200545_zpsd703fa48.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130415_200633_zpsa15febb5.jpg

[DeadlyDesires]

got about 3/4 of the sand and soil mix in tonight. :)
so close i can almost taste it........... no wait, thats probs just sand!!

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130415_200506_zps2604ad21.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130415_200545_zpsd703fa48.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130415_200633_zpsa15febb5.jpg

lol i found that adding the sand/soil mix in the enclosure was the hardest part for me lol... its very time consuming and seems like it never gets full no matter how much you put in it!!!! your enclosure looks good i have been following and watching, can't wait to see the finished product!!

[bowdenmx]

lol i found that adding the sand/soil mix in the enclosure was the hardest part for me lol... its very time consuming and seems like it never gets full no matter how much you put in it!!!! your enclosure looks good i have been following and watching, can't wait to see the finished product!!

thank you so much.
yep, this has defo been the worst part. my back is killing me now lol. will all be worth it in the end though :)

[Mark Taylor]

lol. yea mate. 3 hours all on the hand. oooooouch!

I only had about an hour on my elbow and he bent a few needles I have skinny arms lol

[DeadlyDesires]

thank you so much.
yep, this has defo been the worst part. my back is killing me now lol. will all be worth it in the end though :)


lol @ your back killing you... i tried at least 100 diff ways of mixing that stuff lol there is no easy way.. i wanted to put it all in a cement mixer and open the roof of my house up and just dump it all in lol... was the only option i saw that was good lmfao... unfortunately i was stuck with dumping 2 bags of each in and shovel * dig turn, dig turn, dig turn* lol.. yes it will be worth it in the end... im planning on adding more soil/sand too soon, kinda dreading it though lol for 1, i dont wanna mess up the borrow my sav has that he loves, and 2 dun wanna do it all over again lmfao ...

[bowdenmx]

lol @ your back killing you... i tried at least 100 diff ways of mixing that stuff lol there is no easy way.. i wanted to put it all in a cement mixer and open the roof of my house up and just dump it all in lol... was the only option i saw that was good lmfao... unfortunately i was stuck with dumping 2 bags of each in and shovel * dig turn, dig turn, dig turn* lol.. yes it will be worth it in the end... im planning on adding more soil/sand too soon, kinda dreading it though lol for 1, i dont wanna mess up the borrow my sav has that he loves, and 2 dun wanna do it all over again lmfao ...

haha. yea no doubt. i was exactly the same. hunched over with a spade lmao. lyin on my bed knakerd and in a sweat now. and not in the good way lol.

[DeadlyDesires]

lol not in the good way, yup, but in a way it IS good, you will be super happy once you get him in there and get to watch him explore his new home! :D i took TONS of pictures!! lol.. actually i just took this one today, when i turn off all his lights at night he goes down to his hole and goes to sleep. once i get up in the morning i turn on all the lights and it starts to warm up again and he starts popping his head out to get up and run around! :D this is my fav part of the day, when he wakes up and comes out in the open so i can pet him and say hello

http://i1309.photobucket.com/albums/s638/cynthia_mitchell/20130415_132346_zpscca5a591.jpg


dont worry hes not missing toes lol.. they are covered in dirt :P

[bowdenmx]

lol not in the good way, yup, but in a way it IS good, you will be super happy once you get him in there and get to watch him explore his new home! :D i took TONS of pictures!! lol.. actually i just took this one today, when i turn off all his lights at night he goes down to his hole and goes to sleep. once i get up in the morning i turn on all the lights and it starts to warm up again and he starts popping his head out to get up and run around! :D this is my fav part of the day, when he wakes up and comes out in the open so i can pet him and say hello

http://i1309.photobucket.com/albums/s638/cynthia_mitchell/20130415_132346_zpscca5a591.jpg


dont worry hes not missing toes lol.. they are covered in dirt :P

haha looks amazing. yea i cant wait to get it all sorted now. its taken so long but it has been costly and time consuming. but as you said it will be worth it for sure. expecialy when you see pics like that :) thanks for sharing. anymore? lol

[DeadlyDesires]

haha looks amazing. yea i cant wait to get it all sorted now. its taken so long but it has been costly and time consuming. but as you said it will be worth it for sure. expecialy when you see pics like that :) thanks for sharing. anymore? lol


oh my phone is full of pictures of my lizard :P here ill post you to his thread though and you can look at em all there :P :D http://www.ssnakess.com/forums/varanid/98384-demon-savannah-monitor-d.html

[murrindindi]

Hi, I`m not sure if you already have, but if not, you need to tamp the substrate down really firmly (as in actually walk on it if possible).

[DeadlyDesires]

Hi, I`m not sure if you already have, but if not, you need to tamp the substrate down really firmly (as in actually walk on it if possible).


lol i jumped up and down all over mine! :P it was so packed i was worried he couldn't dig a hole deep enough lol because he would start holes all around his cage but when he got about 2 inches down he would stop i wondered if it was too compressed. but its working great now!

[bowdenmx]

Hi, I`m not sure if you already have, but if not, you need to tamp the substrate down really firmly (as in actually walk on it if possible).

yup i intend to compress it down nice and compact :)

[murrindindi]

yup i intend to compress it down nice and compact :)


Good! Any thoughts on when you might be getting the monitor, I ask because the suspense is killing me!? ;)

[bowdenmx]

Good! Any thoughts on when you might be getting the monitor, I ask because the suspense is killing me!? ;)

haha. as soon as the enclosure is done and stable mate, plus nead to source the monitor to lol. nothing down where i live in the way of babies rite now :(

[DeadlyDesires]

haha. as soon as the enclosure is done and stable mate, plus nead to source the monitor to lol. nothing down where i live in the way of babies rite now :(

you dont have the monitor yet? i thought you already did! im happy to see that you are doing what right by building the enclosure first then getting the animal, i wish i knew better when i purchased mine.

[bowdenmx]

you dont have the monitor yet? i thought you already did! im happy to see that you are doing what right by building the enclosure first then getting the animal, i wish i knew better when i purchased mine.

nope not yet lol. on the look out for hatchlings now realy. theres a few adults knocking around but idealy i want a baby

[Freebody]

that's is one awesome build you got for your sav!!! A++

[DeadlyDesires]

nope not yet lol. on the look out for hatchlings now realy. theres a few adults knocking around but idealy i want a baby


hatchlings should be almost ready to go to their permanent homes now i believe keep your eye out.

[bowdenmx]

hatchlings should be almost ready to go to their permanent homes now i believe keep your eye out. yeah thats what i thought. would love to wait to try and find a captive bred sav but the chances of that over in england are very slim.

[DeadlyDesires]

yeah thats what i thought. would love to wait to try and find a captive bred sav but the chances of that over in england are very slim.


yea its sad :(

[bowdenmx]

yea its sad :(

yea it realy is. a guy over here has 30 eggs incubating though so that could be a good start. long way to go though 140/50 days or so.

[DeadlyDesires]

wow long ways for sure...

[DeadlyDesires]

it is a savannah you want right? do you like any other varnid that you would be interested in keeping?

[bowdenmx]

it is a savannah you want right? do you like any other varnid that you would be interested in keeping?

yes its a sav im looking for for this enlosure. god id love to have a shed full of different species. plan is to build an out building at the bottom of my garden for a few in the future :)

[DeadlyDesires]

yes its a sav im looking for for this enlosure. god id love to have a shed full of different species. plan is to build an out building at the bottom of my garden for a few in the future :)


would love to do that too... my dream monitor is a white throat :D

[bowdenmx]

got this sign made for a laugh lol

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130419_171824_zps6d9f6c11.jpg

[Mark Taylor]

All you need now is the sav I will keep my ears and eyes open for you.

[bowdenmx]

All you need now is the sav I will keep my ears and eyes open for you.

thanks man :)

[bowdenmx]

took a trip to the woods today for logs ect. man do you get wierd looks off people waling across a golf coarse with half a tree on each shoulder lmao :)

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130420_185347_zps150c587a.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130420_185327_zps0922aa69.jpg

[murrindindi]

Hi, the one with the hole is a great looking log, yes you do get some weird looks carrying dead trees around, but you have to do what you have to do..... :)
It would be good if you could find one that went the length of the enclosure, fit it on a slight upward angle, they love to climb (especially the younger ones).

[bowdenmx]

Hi, the one with the hole is a great looking log, yes you do get some weird looks carrying dead trees around, but you have to do what you have to do..... :)
It would be good if you could find one that went the length of the enclosure, fit it on a slight upward angle, they love to climb (especially the younger ones).

yeah i totaly aggree. im def going to go down for more.

[jarich]

It would be good if you could find one that went the length of the enclosure, fit it on a slight upward angle, they love to climb (especially the younger ones).

Ya, mine loves sitting on the log I have like this. Its his favourite hang out.

You dont want to treat that shelf before you put it in?

[bowdenmx]

Ya, mine loves sitting on the log I have like this. Its his favourite hang out.

You dont want to treat that shelf before you put it in?

its easily removed if i ever nead to change it plus the flood lights being on it will keep it nice and dry. but as i said it is easily removed.

[jarich]

Ah, right, fair enough then.

[bowdenmx]

i put another 8 bags of soil in today and more sand. also fitted a 60w spot in there on an angle to give a cooler basking spot in a different place. put the glass in the viewing window also. i think im done. my god, i realy think i am :bouncy:

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130421_171224_zps0494557b.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130421_171231_zps637c9060.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130421_172950_zps520fde63.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130421_172920_zps983f8cd9.jpg

[smy_749]

More logs, add leaf litter or something too. That is a very nice enclosure. Something I noticed, about the logs you have, which is similar to some of the logs I have, is that they are really smooth because there is no bark on them. My mangrove is more tree adapt than savannahs, and he can climb it, but not with the same ease as branches that still have bark on them. Sometimes his claws won't grasp fully since the surface is so smooth. Try to get some with bark on them too, will give your cage more variance too :P

[bowdenmx]

More logs, add leaf litter or something too. That is a very nice enclosure. Something I noticed, about the logs you have, which is similar to some of the logs I have, is that they are really smooth because there is no bark on them. My mangrove is more tree adapt than savannahs, and he can climb it, but not with the same ease as branches that still have bark on them. Sometimes his claws won't grasp fully since the surface is so smooth. Try to get some with bark on them too, will give your cage more variance too :P

thanks man. yea im going to grab a load of leaf litter from the woods this coming weekend and hunt for some more logs ect :)

[bowdenmx]

would love to do that too... my dream monitor is a white throat :D

ok so i left the viv running all day today. just got home and checked the temps.
basking spot is 144°f
left hand thermomitor and hygo reads 102°f and 60%
right hand reads 98°f and 55%
left side is the side with the basking spot right side with a 60w spot lamp. you rekon i should remove the 60w to get more of a heat gradient?
also each thermomitor says it max'd at 99% at some point

[murrindindi]

ok so i left the viv running all day today. just got home and checked the temps.
basking spot is 144°f
left hand thermomitor and hygo reads 102°f and 60%
right hand reads 98°f and 55%
left side is the side with the basking spot right side with a 60w spot lamp. you rekon i should remove the 60w to get more of a heat gradient?
also each thermomitor says it max'd at 99% at some point


Hi, you need to know just two temps; the lowest ambient (air) in the coolest parts at approx 24c (75f), then the surface temp at the basking site at betwen approx 50 to 60c (120 to 140f), no other temp matters. They must have the opportunity to cool down at times.
What`s the usual ambient temp in the room the enclosure`s in during the day and night throughout the year?

[bowdenmx]

Hi, you need to know just two temps; the lowest ambient (air) in the coolest parts at approx 24c (75f), then the surface temp at the basking site at betwen approx 50 to 60c (120 to 140f), no other temp matters. They must have the opportunity to cool down at times.
What`s the usual ambient temp in the room the enclosure`s in during the day and night throughout the year?
temps in the room are usualy around 50°/60°

[Mark Taylor]

temps in the room are usualy around 50°/60°

How the hell do you get the little o for degrees? :freakedout:

[bowdenmx]

lol. its in the text options on me phone °°°°°°°°°° lol

[Mark Taylor]

B*****d lol I tried doing what it says on google but doesn't work lol.

Sorry for the of topic quiz carry on.

[jarich]

Hi, you need to know just two temps; the lowest ambient (air) in the coolest parts at approx 24c (75f), then the surface temp at the basking site at betwen approx 50 to 60c (120 to 140f), no other temp matters. They must have the opportunity to cool down at times.
What`s the usual ambient temp in the room the enclosure`s in during the day and night throughout the year?

I would maybe add one more temperature to that, which would be the soil/substrate temp. If its a male, its not as important, but if its a female then one end of the substrate needs to be around 86.

[bowdenmx]

I would maybe add one more temperature to that, which would be the soil/substrate temp. If its a male, its not as important, but if its a female then one end of the substrate needs to be around 86.

ok thankyou. i know its only been a day with the lights on, just seems to be getting way to hot in there. and not alot of gradient between ends.

[jarich]

Ya, I would take out that extra spotlight and see where you are. If that 98 is your cool side temp then that is way too hot.

You could also consider raising that basking platform a little higher, then putting those lights on a thermostat and reducing the output slightly. That would give you the same basking temps but reduce the ambient you are getting from it.

[bowdenmx]

yea good plan. the lights are on chains so i can put them to whatever level i like. i think im going to try different wattage lamps and see what i can come up with.
thanks again.

[varanus_mad]

yea good plan. the lights are on chains so i can put them to whatever level i like. i think im going to try different wattage lamps and see what i can come up with.
thanks again.


try some 50w if your not already doing so a mate of mine has enclosures similar to your well insulated etc and he has to use tiny wattages if not they over heat...

Id also turn over the substrate to if you can be bothered itll heat up a bit faster that amount is a massive heat sink.

[bowdenmx]

got more branches anf logs today and added some leaf litter also.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130427_171021_zps529c815d.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130427_171014_zps645ab256.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130427_170934_zpsebc7fb3f.jpg

[Pirarucu]

Looking very nice! Are you going to be putting any grass or other plants in there? I found one brand of grass seed that is surviving well in at least one Sav's cage.

[bowdenmx]

Looking very nice! Are you going to be putting any grass or other plants in there? I found one brand of grass seed that is surviving well in at least one Sav's cage.

yea i wad thinking of doing a grass area. what do you recommend?

[Pirarucu]

A keeper on YouTube uses this stuff, it is doing exceedingly well in his cage.
Rebel Grass|Rebel Tall Fescue Grass Seed|Rebel Grass Seed|Fescue.com (http://www.fescue.com/info/rebeltallfescue.html)

Video:
rTjQ2ZUc&

[Donnie]

Looking great, just needs a little fella (or las) in there now to complete it

[bowdenmx]

put in a few more bits of decor today. about a tenner for all that with some left over. got it from dunelm mill. so much cheaoer than reptile branded. probs wont last 5mins in there but hey, looks good for now lol.

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130525_131521_zps723c786d.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130525_131528_zps3a087a67.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130525_131538_zps7ee7cbdf.jpg

[jarich]

Looks great! Love the leaf litter. Have you gotten some little creepy crawlies to put in there? I would really recommend getting them in there even before the monitor. Some isopods, springtails and African earthworms will be great for the enclosure.

Love all the logs too, really nice job.

[bowdenmx]

Looks great! Love the leaf litter. Have you gotten some little creepy crawlies to put in there? I would really recommend getting them in there even before the monitor. Some isopods, springtails and African earthworms will be great for the enclosure.

Love all the logs too, really nice job.

yea man.i plan on getting some next week.

[bowdenmx]

well i went to my mates today and i came home with solomon :) hes settling in chasing a few roaches around i threw in there. :)

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130526_190339_zpsb3886079.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130526_190329_zps6b4cc702.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130526_183230_zpscce836a8.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130526_183329_zps645a7e04.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130526_185438_zpsd1673825.jpg

[smy_749]

awesome, looks good

[murrindindi]

Hi, it`s great to finally see a monitor in the monitor enclosure! Do you have any idea how old he/she is?

[bowdenmx]

Hi, it`s great to finally see a monitor in the monitor enclosure! Do you have any idea how old he/she is?

he is about 5 and male. :) hes a proper character already lol.

[Pirarucu]

Very nice! If I were you though, I'd take that thermometer out of there before he decides it looks like lunch.

[Donnie]

Congratulations, its now complete

[Philmul]

Love it well done.

[sweatshirt]

Nice, hope to see more pics :)

[jarich]

Congrats on getting the monitor finally! That was a lot of work to get to that point (hmmmm perhaps Solomon's Temple is an appropriate name ;) ), now you get to watch it all pay off for you and Solomon.

[Mark Taylor]

Congrats mate any more updates?

[formica]

great build diary, enclosure looks wikid, nice one!

a note about the platform and the lights keeping it dry - humidity inside should spike once the lights go off, 80%+, so do be ready with a new one thats treated, i think you will need it sooner than u might realize

Great looking monitor too! where did you find an adult? hope he's enjoying his new home

thanks for keepin this thread upto date, enjoyed readin thru!

[bowdenmx]

will update the other thread with some more pics tnite. been crazy busy at work lately. thanks for the comments

[skelington]

wow that enclosure is really nice! you did a great job! I will def be taking some of what you did and applying it to the cage i build for sure!

[savannahs]

lil update. :)

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_131835_zps74efa256.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_141123_zps53fcc2db.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_141130_zps8ba7998a.jpg

http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb400/bowdenmx/20130410_152532_zps964a47f4.jpg

nearly there now.

What brand is that soil? Also, what is the stuff you used inside the cage to insulate it? Thanks!

[rdozier76]

hey your viv looks amazing . im fixing to hv to build two one for my savannah and one for my 3 1/2 foot iguana, if anyone has any ideas or info that would help i would appreciate the help. thanks in advance

[infernalis]

hey your viv looks amazing . im fixing to hv to build two one for my savannah and one for my 3 1/2 foot iguana, if anyone has any ideas or info that would help i would appreciate the help. thanks in advance

Correct Savannah Monitor Care (http://www.savannahmonitor.net/)

Click housing and cages.