Whats new and sexy in the world of varanids?

[ectotherm]

Greets varanophiles,

New to the forums, not so new to herping. It has been quite some time since I last kept monitors. At that time, (late 80's into 90's) breeding (for any species) seemed to be a rarity at the hobbyist level. It has been remarkable to see that the spiny tails in particular, are now bred with relative frequency.

Did a search before my post regarding v.prasinus. This species to me was like the holy grail for breeding varanids. I saw green trees mentioned in several posts, but the info seemed anecdotal. I have been out of the varanid loop for some time - don't currently own one, and don't see any in my near future, but they are still by far my favorite.

Anyone care to enlighten me, or point me to some information so I can get back up to speed? Is there still a ban on animals coming out of Indonesia? (As I recall prasinus availability all but dried up in mid-ninties) Most of the newly identified species still coming out of Indo/Micronesia? Are any species for the most part
out of the hobby? Haven't seen much about rudicolis for a while either.
Any varanid husbandry holy-wars going on?
Anyone breeding Megalania yet?

[markb]

The tone of your post, I sense I know you from long ago...Im mark bayless. Do we know/knew each other??

Your scoop on V. prasinus has not changed a great deal since 1980's, with intermittant breedings since then; I recently wrote an indepth article for Reptilia Magazine on Varanus prasinus complex (pt. 1) natural history, taxonomy, habitat, distribution, morphology, captivity, diet, captivity) and (pt. 2) on reproduction, hopefully to be published soon??

There is a tremendous amount of material readily available to varanophiles since 1980's, but alas the herpetofauna is limited to what is availaibe. Germany herpetoculturalists are still ahead of what usa persons do, and for a better word, they're better at it, having 20+ years experience and understanding ahead of usa. However some perosns are accomplishing a great deal of achievements, with leaps and bounds, but the diversity is sadly lacking. Perhaps the Canadian Steve B. will be able to introduce more exotic varanofauna into the market when he breeds more V. doreanus/locality-related animals in the near future, and other species?

Hope that answers some of your inquires?
Cheers,
mbayless

[ectotherm]

I certainly recognize your name Mr. Bayless. I'm unsure if we ever corresponded in the past, but I have certainly read many of your articles.

I don't know if I will get the opportunity to become an active participant in varanid husbandry again. I am having enough difficulty with my 1.0 hatchling h.sapiens. I do however, want to stay abreast of what is happening with varanid herpetoculture. In perusing the site, I did find Steve B's gallery, along with a few other folks here who appear to be avid monitor keepers. Steves gallery was very impressive. Thanks very much for your response. I certainly look forward to the articles on v.prasinus. Again thanks, and I wish you continued success with your work.

Regards,
Don Mulrenan

[Steeve B]

Glad you enjoyed Don, visite again soon I will ad 10 new species
Rgds

http://www.ssnakess.com/photopost/data/502/959test_canon_026-med.jpg