heloderma

brandi · 02-29-04, 11:06 PM

Just wondering if anyone was keeping Gila Monsters? Since I live in Arizona, we can't have them... can't even touch them! But absolutely fell in love first time I saw one when I was working in the field. camped out near the burrow for a couple days just to watch them for 5 mins AM and PM. Anyhow, currious what kind of captives they make, and what its like getting to own one.

nolagurl · 03-01-04, 06:10 AM

I asked the same question not too long ago. :-P There are a few good websites dedicated to heloderms but I can't find them atm. Do a google search for Dr. Seward and something should pop up.

Mustangrde1 · 03-01-04, 06:54 AM

I have had the pleasure of working with a few Gila's and as soon as the $$$$ is there hope to have a few. The ones I have delt with have been very managable animals that basically remind me of a Sav Monitor. That being said still pitbulls when it comes to a bite and one I would deffinately not want to be bit from. I have to admit that its hard not to want to hold them and pet them. They are cute little guys.

nolagurl · 03-02-04, 04:12 PM

A guy in my herp club has/had one. He held it just like you would any other lizard.

Gregg M · 03-02-04, 04:16 PM

Yeah, and I can kick an old man down the stairs....... I dont make it a good idea though......LOL

jtpRUGGER · 03-02-04, 04:16 PM

Although gilas can seem quite calm at times, I would never recommend simply freehandling them as if it was a beardie. They CAN have a nasty bite when they want to.