Crocodile Monitor
(Varanus salvadorii)
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Why
are the Indonesian giants so impressive? Just as the reticulated
python is the “King of Constrictors,” the crocodile
monitor could easily lay claim to the same throne among varanids.
Coloration is black with yellow dotting and a blue/green tint
upon pebbled scales. Croc monitors are massive claws, prehensile
tail, huge teeth and incredible size potential all in a snuggly
little bundle. While known to reach lengths over 12', keep in
mind that most of the animal's length is made up by prehensile
tail. These lizards are highly intelligent, with the piercing
eyes of a being that has something going on upstairs. Crocodile
monitors can become tame, sweet captives if treated with the utmost
respect and understanding that they are also potent predators
that evolved to survive harsh conditions met in Indonesian jungles.
Our largest is an 8' male that is extremely tolerant of human
interaction. To successfully maintain this species one must provide
suitable space and dedication. 14’ x 8’ x 4’
are cage dimensions for our 1.3 group, with a separate breeding/nesting
enclosure measuring 12’ x 2’ x 2’. We are in the process of establishing a consistent breeding program for Varanus salvadorii at NERD. Several clutches of infertile eggs & eggs eaten by cagemates have caused us to completely rethink our approach to breeding these animals. In 2002 we made several changes to our breeding & nesting setup and now feel that we are on the road to getting viable eggs. As of this writing we have gravid females that are nearing egg-laying time.
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