Varanus melinus husbandry (help!)

arnoldosu1 · 06-13-13, 07:09 PM

Hello, I know monitor husbandry is still in a learning phase with even the most experienced keepers, especially with the newer monitor species. The monitor that interests me is varanus melinus (aka. yellow or quince monitor).

I am in the process of setting up a new inclosure for a baby! I am starting with an exo-terra (with the opening front doors) that is 36"w x 24"h x 18"d. I know this is only temporary until he/she grows out of it and I do plan on figuring out how to make a solid lid to replace the screen top (though I am open to suggestions as how to best do that!).

My main question is how important is keeping temps and humidity constant? I ask this because I do not plan on keeping my monitor (or him/her keeping me as many monitor keepers say lol) as a display animal, meaning I plan to allow him/her free roam (supervised) around my room and such. With weather permitting I plan on taking him/her outside to get some fresh air and real sunlight! Also it is quite humid here (cincinnati, ohio), so I'm sure they'd like it.

I have talked to a couple of people; one with melinus and other an indicus monitor, who both claim that humidity is only an issue when the monitor isn't given access to a swimming container. Thats my other question: If my monitor always has access to a swimming bowl/container is humidity really as big a factor? I of course plan on providing proper humidity in the inclosure...it is more when he/she is roaming outside of the inclosure that I am concerned.

That brings about another question, though all these questions kind of intertwine with one another. Will the change in temps from his cage properly set up with a basking spot at 100 or so (it is a baby) and cool side being mid 70s...leaving the ambient temp at about 85 and then going to house temps at around mid 60s low 70s pose a potential risk, like respiratory infection? I was planning on having an out of cage basking spot and pool o as to combat the lack of heat and humidity.

Thanks for any and all responses and even for just reading, I know it's kind of a long question that may have no one "correct" answer. Any input would be great!