Quote Originally Posted by mumps View Post
Can't really speak on exanthematicus from experience as I've never kept them, but the other species which I have kept (and a varanid is a varanid IMO), growth is much quicker than that.

I currently am raising an ornate monitor which is almost 10 months old. It is currently almost 3 feet long, if not it is. It eats daily, is very active and is a true joy to work with (captive bred monitors are SO worth the extra big price tag). Monitors are active, intelligent voracious predators that grow quickly. I would think that a sav would be at least 2-3 feet by the time it is a year old.

Most keepers of savs don't realize the huge appetite, high basking temps (130F minimum) and large environments required by these fascinating reptiles, and it shows in the animals that I have seen, far outnumbering the properly cared for specimens, unfortunately.

Chris
Thank you Chris. I never get them as lil bits, (Would love if I did, Varanids of any kind are my fav's).
She may only be 20 inches but she is full of personality. I am unsure, It is so hard to trust orig. owners when they give you info. I have to rely on what they usually say. Accept this time I asked where she was purchased from and was able to track with help of the owner of said mom and pop shop.
She is doing so well thou, We just had her out today. She seems so happy and healthy now that she is receiving the heat she needs.
Not biting (hissing,) but not snapping. I think she will be just fine...

Quote Originally Posted by Mettle View Post
3 or 4 years old and only 20"? WOW. So tiny.

Glad to see that she's a wel mannered little girl at the moment. Definitely makes for an easier adoptee that's for sure. I've met a couple really mean savs before - but then, a couple that are big sweet hearts. Let's hope she stays the latter for ya!

I know you said the enclosure was temporary while you got her settled in a bit better. Any shots of what her more permanent home looks like?
She was brought to us in a 30 gallon (yes in with the sand etc, the orig Owner was scared to touch) Even when I tried to explain by phone on how to transport.
She is now in a temporary 75G. This month we are going to be building a multitude of cages. (That is why I was able to take her in).
We have a room that is open. (Thank goodness)
Her cage will be a wall type cage built out of treated wood (I've done this in the past with no problem).
The enclosure will be 8ft X 4FT X 4FT
It may be a bit bigger then needed for a Sav. But our resident Blackthroat "Digger" will be in the same "Stack". Might as well make a few cages the same size to fit the room.... More room the better I figure.
My brother is coming up next week or so to help with the building. Once they are completed I'll do my best to post some pics.
Rusty