Id love a critique

[mumps]

Thanks for asking for some critique. I am glad you did lots of research into your new animal before purchasing, so let's get on with it.

First, while your gorgeous Monet is in that tank (I give it 3 months tops), I would recommend covering the sides and back. Either inside with cork bark or cork sheets, or outside with any kind of covering (paper bags, construction paper, etc.). Monitors have a real hard time with glass and he/she will bolt into it at top speed if frightened. Second, cover about 80% of the screen top to prevent humidity loss. You're going to be misting that thing forever.

Diet: Bugs are great, but you're going to spend a fortune on bugs for a growing Varanus salvator. I would recommend offering the insects in the morning, and in the afternoon offer a couple appropriately sized f/t rodents, whatever you have access to. At 14 inches I would suggest young adult mice or rat pups. The first year of life is CRITICAL to the health aspect of varanids and they eat like mad and grow like weeds. Expect your pet to be around the 4 foot mark by the time it is a year old. So start work on the next enclosure as soon as possible.

Other than that everything looks great. Your temps are good and the substrate, though a little shallow, seems adequate.

Enjoy your new varanid. Are you familiar with techniques for establishing trust?

Chris