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View Full Version : How to "tame" a nile monitor?


RedTailedBoa
05-02-13, 10:33 PM
Hi there, I have had a hatchling nile monitor for 3 weeks and has grown almost 2ft in length in that small amount of time, however i haven't actually worked with him on taming.
The first week he freaked out and hid whenever i passed by but now he actually runs up to my arm whenever i open his cage for feeding, he does not bite or wip like he used to on the first week however he gets very skittish outside his cage.
Anyone know what the "bathtub" method or any other methods are so my little guy doesn't become a demon when he's full grown? Thanks!

infernalis
05-02-13, 10:56 PM
Myself and any other sane monitor keeper will tell you, the best and only method that works is to keep your hands off the animal and let it get used to you on it's own terms.

The "bathtub method" is asinine, stressful to the animal, and one of the worst ideas in the history of bad ideas.

Subjugating the animal only causes it to hate you more.

Build trust, they are extremely intelligent, treat them as such, become his friend, not his master.

You will enjoy the ride a lot more too.

Danimal
05-03-13, 08:31 AM
I would only add that in some cases they just don't "tame" and the most you can you will is tolerance. I had a Nile for a few years, I put my hands in to feed and to clean and he never bothered me. Lifting and moving required leather gloves and a couple of thick towels. Patience, like with most things, is your friend. :)

varanus_mad
05-03-13, 09:30 AM
I would go so far as to say since this is a nile youve got yourself the net result will probably be he never becomes tame or tractable...

They are to scared of people... (with good reason i say)

Pirarucu
05-03-13, 02:37 PM
The other posts about covered it. Leave it alone and let it come to you on its own.

RedTailedBoa
05-03-13, 11:07 PM
Absolutely, Thank you all for great answers!:)