Bosc monitor care

Bosc monitors, also known as Savannah monitors, are large, active lizards that are popular as pets among reptile enthusiasts. These reptiles require specialized care to thrive in captivity.

 

The Habitat of Bosc Monitors

 

Bosc monitors require a spacious and comfortable habitat to live in. A single adult Bosc monitor needs a minimum of a 6-foot-long by 3-foot-wide by 6-foot-high enclosure. The enclosure should be made of high-quality materials, such as PVC or sealed plywood, and should have a screened top. The enclosure should also have several hiding spots, such as caves or logs, where the Bosc monitor can rest.

 

Bosc monitors are tropical lizards and require a warm and humid environment to thrive. The temperature in the enclosure should be between 85 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the night. A basking spot should be provided in the enclosure where the temperature is between 100 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

The enclosure should also have a UVB light, which simulates natural sunlight and helps to prevent the development of metabolic bone disease. The UVB light should be on for approximately 10-12 hours per day.

 

Diet of Bosc Monitors

 

Bosc monitors are carnivores and require a diet that consists primarily of protein. They should be fed a variety of insects, such as crickets, roaches, mealworms, waxworms, and superworms. Bosc monitors can also eat small mammals, such as mice, rats, and hamsters, in their diet.

 

It is crucial to provide Bosc monitors with a calcium supplement, as they require large amounts of calcium to maintain healthy bones. Calcium can be provided in the form of a dusting powder that is dusted on the feeder insects before feeding the Bosc monitor.

 

It is also essential to provide Bosc monitors with fresh water every day. The water bowl should be large enough for the Bosc monitor to soak in, as they enjoy soaking in water.

 

Grooming Requirements of Bosc Monitors

 

Bosc monitors require minimal grooming, but it is essential to keep their enclosure clean. The enclosure should be spot cleaned every day to remove any faecal matter or uneaten food. The enclosure should also be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected once a month.

 

Bosc monitors shed their skin, and it is essential to provide them with a humid hiding spot, such as a moist hide, to help them shed their skin properly. The moist hide should be misted every day to maintain the correct level of humidity.

 

Physical and Behavioural Needs of Bosc Monitors

 

Bosc monitors are active lizards and require plenty of space to move around. They enjoy digging and require a deep substrate that is at least 6 inches deep. The substrate can be made of coconut fibre, cypress mulch, or a mixture of soil and sand.

 

Bosc monitors are solitary animals and should be housed alone. If housed with other Bosc monitors, they may become aggressive towards each other.

 

It is also essential to provide Bosc monitors with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Providing them with different climbing structures and toys can help to keep them mentally and physically active.

 

In conclusion, Bosc monitors require specialized care to thrive in captivity. A spacious and comfortable enclosure, a warm and humid environment, a balanced diet, and regular exercise, and mental stimulation are essential to their physical and behavioural health. Following these complete care guidelines can help to ensure that your Bosc monitor lives a long and healthy life in captivity.