No monitor keepers are actually very helpful when it comes to assisting people with questions. However, the two monitor forums don't really cater to people who can't be bothered to do basic research.Originally Posted by JohnNJ
I guess it's all monitor people that are extremely hard on newbies. Another good reason to NOT get a monitor.
You "experts" have been great. Peace out!
There are two problems here and neither have to do with the "experts" as you so poutily made reference to.
It has to do with people who have nor experience giving out bad advice, and it has to do with the notion that any sort of monitor is a beginning pet.
There are plenty of monitor species I have absolutely no experience with. I do have experience with both acanthurus and tristis, and can positively assert that even though they are easier to keep than most other varanids, they are still more difficult to keep than just about any other reptile out there.
After seeings sick and neglected varanids over many, many years, I have absolutely no patience with someone conceited enough and unwise enough to state that varanids aren't that hard to keep.
There is a difference between being a jerk and being a person who cares more about the fate of somne innocent animal than the feelings of someone immature enough to give out advice on something they know nothing about. If that bothers you, feel free to put all of us "varanid" experts on ignore. It won't hurt our feelings one bit.
To the OP: my advice still stands. Join Varanus.nl and browse/search the forums. Take a hard look at the following when you search through the posts:
(1) Ackie set-ups.
(2) Discussions regarding optimum substrate type and depth.
(3) Discussions regarding optimum temperatures, humidity and thermoregulation zones.
(4) Discussions regarding proper diet.
You will see a trend in the posts. Pay particular attention to the complexity of the setups in terms of space in 3-dimensions and how those requirements are met. Pay close attention to how keepers provide for varying levels of basking requirements and the temps of each.
Understand what substrate is preferred, how it's mixed and why it is necessary to provide. It's not enough to understand what all of these requirements are, but why? Understanding "why" is the key to meeting the many requirements of these animals.
After you've done that research, ask yourself if you can properly provide for these requirements.
After you've done all that, I have no issues offering you further advice or information via PM. I'd hazard a guess that Chris would offer you the same help. All I ask is that you put in the effort to do your own research to cover the basics and have the maturity to accurately assess as to whether or not you are ready for this level of commitment to an animal.
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