Littlefoot & Cera (New video & pictures) 2013!

[Pirarucu]

Love the first and last pictures!

[RyanReptile]

I've seen some of your most recent photos of your monitors and was curious weather or not they were fully grown or not, they look so small compared to all the fat blobs that you see all over YouTube. You obviously take great care of your lizards.

[Pirarucu]

I've seen some of your most recent photos of your monitors and was curious weather or not they were fully grown or not, they look so small compared to all the fat blobs that you see all over YouTube. You obviously take great care of your lizards.These two are almost a year old. If I had to guess, I'd say that they will continue to grow, albeit at a slower rate. However, since we have relatively little knowledge of their growth in captivity in proper conditions, we just have to wait and see.

[infernalis]

Their growth has slowed down tremendously in the last couple months, They are about a yard long now.

[Pirarucu]

Their growth has slowed down tremendously in the last couple months, They are about a yard long now.They could be done, but I still think they'll put on some more size.. What I've always seen and heard is that they grow continuously for a while, then it slows down for a while before hitting a sudden growth spurt. Then they slow down before another spurt, and so on. I think that's most likely what will happen, but honestly we'll never know until it does or doesn't.

[RyanReptile]

At a year of age I could imagine they still have some growing to do.

[infernalis]

At a year of age I could imagine they still have some growing to do.

Yes, but if they ever get wide, I deserve to be shot. Wild Savannah Monitors are not fat, so it's NOT normal for them to be fat.

In nature there is the quick, and there is the dead...

[Pirarucu]

Yes, but if they ever get wide, I deserve to be shot. Wild Savannah Monitors are not fat, so it's NOT normal for them to be fat.

In nature there is the quick, and there is the dead...In my opinion, a fat tail (Which will still be more muscle than fat, really.) is a good thing, but a fat body is a very bad thing. Tat's what I use to define optimum monitor weight. The tail should be fat, the body should be lean. A lean body and a stick tail are no good.

[infernalis]

21,000 hits on this thread. :D

http://www.varanuspark.com/savannah/exanthematicus.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/savannah/lizard.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/savannah/monitor.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/savannah/savannah.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/savannah/savannahs.jpg

[DeadlyDesires]

awesome wayne,
how big are they now?
Mine is starting to show a good feeding response, when i fed him tonight when i got home he was all over the cage for some nice roaches! lol It was the cutest thing ever.. i should have recorded it :P meh. anyway, i love seeing pics of yours.

[Lankyrob]

The one coming out of thepipe makes it look like he is pretending to be a tortoise :)

[Pirarucu]

Looking great as always.

[guidofatherof5]

Good looking kids you've got there Wayne. No blank stares with those two. They always look like they're up to something, thinking, scheming.

[infernalis]

new camera.. Yes I have started experimenting with filming in HD, new videos coming soon.

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/litlltefootHD.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/HD2.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/HD3.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/HD4.jpg

[Lankyrob]

Awesome as always!! :)

[Pirarucu]

Awesome! What cam are you using now? Can't wait to see new vids, it has been too long.

[infernalis]

I was at Wal Mart yesterday, they put one of the Canon Powershot cameras from the store display out for $50.

A $200 camera for $50, I couldn't pass it up.

I still have to figure out how to set the saturation, Low light pictures look awesome, brightly lit shots are washed out, so I am confident it must be a setting.

http://www3.pcmag.com/media/images/252727-canon-powershot-elph-100-hs-angle.jpg

[reptile man]

wayne how do you post videos on here i want to post a vid of my sav eating shrimp for the first time

[infernalis]

wayne how do you post videos on here i want to post a vid of my sav eating shrimp for the first time

put it up on youtube first. Then I will show you how to post a youtube.

[youngster]

Damn, it's been awhile. They're looking real good Wayne.

[KORBIN5895]

Damn, it's been awhile. They're looking real good Wayne.

Nice to see you back Eli.

[reptile man]

put it up on youtube first. Then I will show you how to post a youtube.

ok wayne i put it on youtube

[infernalis]

ok wayne i put it on youtube

Copy down the video ID number and put it in a post like this.....

http://www.ssnakess.info/forumfun/tuber.gif

upr80BL343k

[Pirarucu]

I never get tired of these two.

[guidofatherof5]

Very nice Wayne.

[DiscoPat]

They are getting so big, Also I love the Watermark on the new photos.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/cerastare.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/LF1.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/limb.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/limblook.jpg

[Lankyrob]

"umm, have i got something on my face?". ;)

[Deva]

Beautiful animals. It is very nice to see these pictures.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/hole.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/hideyhole.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/leftlook.jpg

[V87]

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/hole.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/hideyhole.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/leftlook.jpg

3rd pic ... I've sed enough already ...:yes:

Boom tongue

[infernalis]

http://www.varanid.us/2013/tongueHD.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/details.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/dishin.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/footfloor.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/footlook.jpg

[Pirarucu]

Love the first one!

[varanus_mad]

dude i hate to telll you this but your lizards are covered in dirt....

[Lankyrob]

Love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love ;)

[Pirarucu]

dude i hate to telll you this but your lizards are covered in dirt....It might be interesting to place a big tub of water outside the cage, and let them soak for a bit, just to see what they actually look like under all that dirt. LOL

[guidofatherof5]

Attitude, attitude, attitude. That's a good thing. No blank stares there.

[alessia55]

http://www.varanid.us/2013/dishin.jpg
Is this the dish they had as babies, that you had to put rocks in to keep them afloat?

[infernalis]

Is this the dish they had as babies, that you had to put rocks in to keep them afloat?

Yes, it's the same one.

[Corey209]

I wish I had the room and time for sav's, they're an amazing species.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanid.us/2013/nosebite.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/hemostat.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/climbing.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/climb2.jpg

[MoreliAddict]

Are they getting along a bit better now Wayne?

They're looking great..

[infernalis]

Are they getting along a bit better now Wayne?

They're looking great..

In that first picture, they were not kissing. :)

It's funny really. They scrap from time to time, but they bask together, go down the same burrow, sometimes they walk side by side like siamese twins.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanid.us/2013/pair.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/tongueL.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/forked.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/basking2.jpg

[Pirarucu]

Looking good!

[nepoez]

Hi! Infernalis!

It's me again. I have read many of your posts and I have seen your stand on feeding rodents as staple being fine as long as your monitor is well supported. But I read some of your other posts saying you should just feed insects because of their natural diet in the wild. So I'm thinking your stand has shifted through time. Could you please tell me your current stand on sav diet regarding rodents and also what made your views change etc? Thx!

[infernalis]

Yes, my stance has shifted to pro-rodent.

[nepoez]

Hi Infernalis! Sorry if this is not the right spot to post. But I read a post you made somewhere that your savs never drink water and never soak because they get all moisture they need from the food, and retain them via the humid environment.

Does this mean I should not need to have a water bowl? Also if I have a water bowl and they do drink from it, and they also do like to go in and swirl around for a minute or two each day, does that mean my environment is too dry? They don't soak in there all days, just once a day for a minute or 2, and they usually roam around looking for food.

[infernalis]

I still use a water bowl, even if they do trash it.

[infernalis]

p2Fg-S1YuV4

[RyanReptile]

Their so big! The pictures don't do them justice :)

[murrindindi]

Hi Infernalis! Sorry if this is not the right spot to post. But I read a post you made somewhere that your savs never drink water and never soak because they get all moisture they need from the food, and retain them via the humid environment.

Does this mean I should not need to have a water bowl? Also if I have a water bowl and they do drink from it, and they also do like to go in and swirl around for a minute or two each day, does that mean my environment is too dry? They don't soak in there all days, just once a day for a minute or 2, and they usually roam around looking for food.


Hi, no, it doesn`t mean your husbandry is wrong if you see your monitor take a drink or bathe in the water (or "perfect" if you don`t), though they may get most of their moisture from their foods, not necessarily all of it. They lose moisture throughout the day just moving around the enclosure (or basking).
Most Varanids "like" to swim or at least sit in water at times, and that isn`t just because they are dehydrated. Obviously if the animal is frequently taking drinks, and stays in the water container for long periods there may be something wrong with the conditions.
I don`t believe Wayne said his monitors never drink or bathe, just that he hadn`t actually seen them drinking, which obviously doesn`t mean they haven`t (unless he sits and watches them 24/7)!?
You must ALWAYS provide clean drinking water. They often defaecate in the water container, too.

[Donnie]

p2Fg-S1YuV4

I love watching them feed, there was almost a lady and the tramp moment with one of the worms :D

[infernalis]

Hi, no, it doesn`t mean your husbandry is wrong if you see your monitor take a drink or bathe in the water (or "perfect" if you don`t), though they may get most of their moisture from their foods, not necessarily all of it. They lose moisture throughout the day just moving around the enclosure (or basking).
Most Varanids "like" to swim or at least sit in water at times, and that isn`t just because they are dehydrated. Obviously if the animal is frequently taking drinks, and stays in the water container for long periods there may be something wrong with the conditions.
I don`t believe Wayne said his monitors never drink or bathe, just that he hadn`t actually seen them drinking, which obviously doesn`t mean they haven`t (unless he sits and watches them 24/7)!?
You must ALWAYS provide clean drinking water. They often defaecate in the water container, too.

Stefan is certainly right, I would never advocate anyone omitting the water bowl.

Even if they do just muddy it up, I see then roll in it and they do seem to enjoy the mud (Must be it resembles rainy season?) so I will always keep the water dish of some sort, need a bigger pan soon.

[nepoez]

Stefan is certainly right, I would never advocate anyone omitting the water bowl.

Even if they do just muddy it up, I see then roll in it and they do seem to enjoy the mud (Must be it resembles rainy season?) so I will always keep the water dish of some sort, need a bigger pan soon.

Yeah my guys seem to like to go in the water after coming out of the burrow to wash off the dirt and rub the dirt off. One of them is starting to stay in there longer than usual.. I'll have to observe a few more days... my humidity seems in check(actually went up quite a bit(mid 60% up to mid 70%) after replacing MVB with 3x50watt halogens, plus turning off ceramic emmiter during day time) So will see if the water soaking goes down,.

[infernalis]

http://www.savannahmonitor.net/HD/contrast.jpg

http://www.savannahmonitor.net/HD/grassy.jpg

http://www.savannahmonitor.net/HD/wholie.jpg

[bowdenmx]

love that last pic. love that face.

[Pirarucu]

More please!

[smy_749]

rarely have I seen a 'skinny' savannah. I thought they only came in fat or bloated and it just seemed like an ugly disproportional species. This is a much better looking animal, hard to explain it lol

[infernalis]

rarely have I seen a 'skinny' savannah. I thought they only came in fat or bloated and it just seemed like an ugly disproportional species. This is a much better looking animal, hard to explain it lol

Not hard to explain at all. I know exactly what you mean.

[smy_749]

Not hard to explain at all. I know exactly what you mean.

Did you add fresh dirt? When I added mine to the enclosure it was like 40 degrees on the surface of the dirt and took a few days to warm up completely. And the volume of dirt in mine is not nearly as much as yours, do you just throw it in over the old dirt or wait till it warms up ?

[infernalis]

Did you add fresh dirt? When I added mine to the enclosure it was like 40 degrees on the surface of the dirt and took a few days to warm up completely. And the volume of dirt in mine is not nearly as much as yours, do you just throw it in over the old dirt or wait till it warms up ?

I put the dirt right in there, a few new inches of dirt (even if the dirt was "cool") is not really going to alter the core temps of such a large mass of dirt signifigantly while the new dirt warms up.

They were both out playing in the "cool" dirt within moments of my dumping it in there.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanid.us/husbandry/horror.jpg

[Little Wise Owl]

Grosssss :P lol

I'm always amazed by how healthy they look.

[Donnie]

http://www.varanid.us/husbandry/horror.jpg
They eat better than me :shocked:

[infernalis]

If the sounds of bone crushing and seeing dismembered rats grosses you out, don't click play. ;)

mu-upaVTLTk

[smy_749]

They eat better than me :shocked:

minus the rats, I'm hoping lol.

nice vid haha, took me a minute to figure out what the q-tip looking thing was at the end haha

[infernalis]

Bony legs, natures calcium suppliment.

[monitorlizard]

How come you feed shrimp?

[smy_749]

How come you feed shrimp?

Why not? Its good source of nutrients.

[infernalis]

How come you feed shrimp?

Because shrimp are Arthropods ;)

Big fat meaty water bugs.

[nepoez]

How strong are full grown sav jaws? Can they crush a grown man's fingers?

[jarich]

How strong are full grown sav jaws? Can they crush a grown man's fingers?

I dont think Id want to test the theory, but I would guess its possible. Not likely, but possible

[smy_749]

I dont think Id want to test the theory, but I would guess its possible. Not likely, but possible

I think the species designed to eat mollusks and crustaceans would be more likely to have that capability, if you want to cover your finger in rat scent and let us know, I'd be curious to see the results. Just choose a pinky, you don't need 5 fingers really.

[Mark Taylor]

I think the species designed to eat mollusks and crustaceans would be more likely to have that capability, if you want to cover your finger in rat scent and let us know, I'd be curious to see the results. Just choose a pinky, you don't need 5 fingers really.

LOL but I would not give up my pinky as it's the only one that fits up my
nose :D

[smy_749]

LOL but I would not give up my pinky as it's the only one that fits up my
nose :D

Pinky toe then, I doubt you put that up your nose. I have gorilla nostrils so I can probably use my thumb if I wanted. Anyways in all seriousness just get something edible with the same consistency as human flesh/bone and see what happens. Any suggestions?

[murrindindi]

I`ve been bitten by my 7.5 feet Ornate monitor on my foot, if I hadn`t been wearing leather shoes I`m pretty sure he would have broken a toe or two. I doubt even a fullgrown Savannah monitor would be capable of doing that to an adult person, but I think they may be capable of breaking a child`s finger.
If I had one (a Sav monitor) I would gladly try it for you all, but unfortunately I don`t at this moment in time. (Sorry)....

[infernalis]

I have seen Littlefoot and Cera actually pull a rat in half while feeding, so these critters are capable of hurting us if they really wanted to.

[KORBIN5895]

I`ve been bitten by my 7.5 feet Ornate monitor on my foot, if I hadn`t been wearing leather shoes I`m pretty sure he would have broken a toe or two. I doubt even a fullgrown Savannah monitor would be capable of doing that to an adult person, but I think they may be capable of breaking a child`s finger.
If I had one (a Sav monitor) I would gladly try it for you all, but unfortunately I don`t at this moment in time. (Sorry)....

How old is your child and what would you have to pay them to test this theory?

[nepoez]

LOL but I would not give up my pinky as it's the only one that fits up my
nose :D
lol when u guys say pinky I was thinking the baby infant mouse.

[nepoez]

so far I always see them swollow the whole item without chewing or even killing. Crickets often come out of the mouth fully intact haha.

[moshirimon]

I think a sav could crush fingers. If the bite itself doesn't do it, the aggressive head movements will.

[stephanbakir]

I think a sav could crush fingers. If the bite itself doesn't do it, the aggressive head movements will.

Kayla's big sav grabbed my big toe and did a big head shake thing, took him about a minute to let go... Brutal pain, long twisted gashes, loads of bruising all the way up my foot... We were feeding him and a roach ran between my toes lol.

Wouldn't want that to happen again.

[DeadlyDesires]

Kayla's big sav grabbed my big toe and did a big head shake thing, took him about a minute to let go... Brutal pain, long twisted gashes, loads of bruising all the way up my foot... We were feeding him and a roach ran between my toes lol.

Wouldn't want that to happen again.


owwwww your KNOW that had to hurt.... i would hate it if that happened to me...

[moshirimon]

Kayla's big sav grabbed my big toe and did a big head shake thing, took him about a minute to let go... Brutal pain, long twisted gashes, loads of bruising all the way up my foot... We were feeding him and a roach ran between my toes lol.

Wouldn't want that to happen again.

Ouch lizard bites are hectic. Even the vegetarian ones loll. I remember laying on my bed while my male iguana was out for a bit. Here's how unpredictable males can be. He stopped looked at me , bobbed his head abit , stood up real tall and charged. He jumped the bed and grabbed on to my arm, just above my elbow. I know their jaw pressure isn't the strongest but their teeth are like razor blades. Bit right through my skin, to the point where air was trapped under it. Probably should have got stitches but I wrapped it up, disinfected and waited for it to heal. Still have a small scar but boy was that scary.. The speed of an adult iguana running at you full force.

[infernalis]

The speed of an adult iguana running at you full force.

A well heated monitor is just as fast, if not faster. I have seen it.

[franks]

How strong are full grown sav jaws? Can they crush a grown man's fingers?

They crush up and chew full grown snail shells like they were pretzel nuggets.

[murrindindi]

A well heated monitor is just as fast, if not faster. I have seen it.


Hi Wayne, not only as fast or faster, but much more powerful "pound for pound" and far more stamina!

[varanus_mad]

Hi Wayne, not only as fast or faster, but much more powerful "pound for pound" and far more stamina!


id rather mess with a crocodile of a similar size than a very annoyed montor...

[infernalis]

They crush up and chew full grown snail shells like they were pretzel nuggets.

http://www.varanuspark.com/images/tu.jpg

[stephanbakir]

Ouch lizard bites are hectic. Even the vegetarian ones loll. I remember laying on my bed while my male iguana was out for a bit. Here's how unpredictable males can be. He stopped looked at me , bobbed his head abit , stood up real tall and charged. He jumped the bed and grabbed on to my arm, just above my elbow. I know their jaw pressure isn't the strongest but their teeth are like razor blades. Bit right through my skin, to the point where air was trapped under it. Probably should have got stitches but I wrapped it up, disinfected and waited for it to heal. Still have a small scar but boy was that scary.. The speed of an adult iguana running at you full force.

You say unpredictable... Look up an iguana head bob and tell me what it means :p that was a big warning. During breeding season, most males get aggressive, but they always warn you.
The type of head bob makes a huge difference, but its generally a defensive leave me alone, or something along those lines.

[moshirimon]

You say unpredictable... Look up an iguana head bob and tell me what it means :p that was a big warning. During breeding season, most males get aggressive, but they always warn you.
The type of head bob makes a huge difference, but its generally a defensive leave me alone, or something along those lines.

Lol maybe unpredictable wasn't the best word to use. I meant here's an iguana so tolerate and almost seemed to enjoy coming out his whole life growing up, and now (back then.. i do not have him any more) that he's big enough to do some damage and he's looking for a mate he acts like a completely different lizard. Thats what i meant by unpredictable. This was a long time ago, and he did head bob frequently. Never really looked up the different types of head bobs, about to do that now! :)

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/ckick1.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/chix.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/chik.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/chick1.jpg

[Lankyrob]

Awesome as always :)

[Pirarucu]

Looking good! We need more videos!

[moshirimon]

Your enclosure is like a little piece of Africa.

[boosh96]

Wayne, I can't tell you how jealous I am! You must be the world's happiest/proudest/best monitor keeper. How big is their enclosure again?

[moshirimon]

Just out of curiosity do savs ever defecate in their burrows

[infernalis]

Wayne, I can't tell you how jealous I am! You must be the world's happiest/proudest/best monitor keeper. How big is their enclosure again?

The enclosure is 8x4x4 and I have already cleared the spot and bought the wood to expand it into 16 feet total wide.

I am happy for them that they get to be monitors.

[infernalis]

Just out of curiosity do savs ever defecate in their burrows

No absolutely not... Far too smart to be crapping where they sleep.

If a monitor is defecating in it's burrow, I would be inclined to believe it's sick.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/champ.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/CerChix.jpg

[Cap10Squirty]

That is a fine looking meal (for a monitor)!

How old are those chicks? They are a bit bigger than the mice...maybe the mice are just younger ones (I can't tell).

Wayne, please take a few photos as you make the expansion. I'm in the process of gathering supplies to build a big enlcosure myself and I always enjoy reference photos!

[Pirarucu]

Great shot!

[Mark Taylor]

I would take that meal any day with a bit of gravy and mint sauce.

Your savs get better food than me lol.

[alessia55]

Been wondering..... Is their enclosure still the same? do you frequently add things inside it? are you planning to make it bigger how that they're adults?
They're looking great Wayne. ;) (even though the baby bunnies make me kind of sad)

[franks]

Just out of curiosity do savs ever defecate in their burrows

Mine will only defecate in his water. If the water is too drity for him, he will wait until I clean it, then go straight to the bathroom in it. Like wayne said... far too smart. Most keepers that change the water regularly report that their lizard uses the water for a toilet bowl. They know it gets taken out.

[infernalis]

Mine crap in the corners of the cage, never in the water.

[nepoez]

The one that crapped int he water I sold him. The one i'm keeping always craps int he same spot in the corner. He actually goes take a bath for maybe under a minute to wash off the dirt from the burrow.. then leave the water and poo... last night he crawled on my wife's hand and after a minute he decided he had to get off, and he ran to the corner and pooed, instead of on my wife's hand haha

[infernalis]

ssKcWagKVFs

[Terranaut]

Ahhhhh!!!!
Now that was funny Wayne..lol.

[Concept9]

AWESOME Wayne, congrats.

[Lankyrob]

Ouchie! Was there any damage to you? Pics?

[Donnie]

Sorry Wayne but I did chuckle :D

[NextMorph]

Hahaha. Nice video. Hope your finger's OK. :P

[infernalis]

tiny little pinholes in my finger. Startled me more than it hurt.

[Pirarucu]

LOL. Best video yet..

[AngieT]

Nice Sav's!! hope your fingers better :)

[franks]

Lol glad you are alright wayne.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanid.us/boscs/eye.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/boscs/Face.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/boscs/hand.jpg

4 chickens each! eating machines.

http://www.varanid.us/boscs/pair.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/boscs/tongue.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/boscs/LF.jpg

[Kimmie]

so cute :D

[hunter4life]

ssKcWagKVFs


How often do you feed them like this and how many do they get? Just curious :)

[infernalis]

How often do you feed them like this and how many do they get? Just curious :)

Now that they are a year and a half old, I give them one big meal (3-4 chickens each) every other day and a smaller meal (a few mice, some worms or maybe a few big shrimp) on the alternate days.


During the first year I fed them every day, bigger meals, sometimes twice a day.

[hunter4life]

Now that they are a year and a half old, I give them one big meal (3-4 chickens each) every other day and a smaller meal (a few mice, some worms or maybe a few big shrimp) on the alternate days.


During the first year I fed them every day, bigger meals, sometimes twice a day.

That is really cool :) I'd love to get a larger lizard than my Bearded Dragon, would Tegu's be a good choice? Obviously I wouldn't get one till I got a viv for it though!

[infernalis]

That is really cool :) I'd love to get a larger lizard than my Bearded Dragon, would Tegu's be a good choice? Obviously I wouldn't get one till I got a viv for it though!

+1 for getting your steps in order. Cage first, animal last... :)

I can't comment on the Tegu, never had one. ;)

Personally, I would love to see one more Savannah Monitor that was living in the right environment. (proper cage) since so many die every year from the wrong caging choices.

[hunter4life]

+1 for getting your steps in order. Cage first, animal last... :)

I can't comment on the Tegu, never had one. ;)

Personally, I would love to see one more Savannah Monitor that was living in the right environment. (proper cage) since so many die every year from the wrong caging choices.

I actually used to have a Savannah Monitor :) During the summer I had an outdoor viv and winter was a viv that was in my basement (don't worry it was warm! :)) Had him for years, sadly I was gone on vacation and it was Halloween so my family had a party and the door was always locked but somehow it opened and someone left a sock and he ate it :( He was rushed to the vet but by then they couldn't do anything..I was so heart broken it happened while I was gone too! :(

[infernalis]

sorry to hear that...

[hunter4life]

sorry to hear that...


Thanks :/ That's why I'm not sure I'd get another one, I always like having new animals, like a species of lizard I havn't already had or a different type of snake. I always like learning more about other animals so best way is to read up and ask questions about it and then if you got the right stuff, get a new animal for a totally new experience :)

[Tenodera]

Your savannah monitors are so lucky to have an owner like you!
Did they dig all their burrows themselves or did you help them out a little?

[infernalis]

Your savannah monitors are so lucky to have an owner like you!
Did they dig all their burrows themselves or did you help them out a little?

They do their own digging ;)

And many thanks for the compliment.

[Amadeus]

They are huge compared to the first page pics.

[B_Aller]

Wayne,
great video, possibly the best sav's I've ever seen in captivity. Get some damn females!
I'd love to see male combat followed by mating!
After the heart break I've witnessed over on the enclosure boards, this is refreshing.
I laughed at your scream, glad you did too!
Best.

[Mikoh4792]

damn those savs look robust and healthy, not like the fat ones I usually see.

[infernalis]

Wayne,
great video, possibly the best sav's I've ever seen in captivity. Get some damn females!
I'd love to see male combat followed by mating!
After the heart break I've witnessed over on the enclosure boards, this is refreshing.
I laughed at your scream, glad you did too!
Best.

Thank you very much Ben.

I have a confirmed laying female waiting, But I refuse to accept shipment until I have another enclosure already built.

Right now, she's housed properly...;)

[smy_749]

Thank you very much Ben.

I have a confirmed laying female waiting, But I refuse to accept shipment until I have another enclosure already built.

Right now, she's housed properly...;)


Well get on it then like ben said! No pics of the war scar ?

[franks]

Great pics wayne! Any more observations of altercations between the two guys?

[sweatshirt]

This thread was awesome to read =)

[infernalis]

Great pics wayne! Any more observations of altercations between the two guys?

They still bully and push each other. They did a tug of war with a chicken, got messy.

What I have observed though, they can take what they dish out. Just the other night Cera was climbing all over Littlefoot, Littlefoot decided enough was enough and turned on Cera.


This thread was awesome to read =)

Thank you...

[franks]

Interesting. I have a question but need to relate it to dogs to be understood: people who have kept dogs and have witnessed dog altercations can tell the difference between different types of dog fights. There is the jockeying for dominance, the escalated version of this which is a real fight, and then an all out fight for survival. How do your experiences with these two compare? I saw the one video where cera had littlefoot by the leg- any fear that these altercations can escalate into an all out fight for survival? I am pretty sure Daniel Bennett wrote that he believes combat is fairly common, but had no reason to suspect these lizards ever faught to the death, I just wonder how/if captivity changes that. Just curious- I have no access to anyone that has ever kept two males together, and just want some insight on what that is like.

[infernalis]

Interesting. I have a question but need to relate it to dogs to be understood: people who have kept dogs and have witnessed dog altercations can tell the difference between different types of dog fights. There is the jockeying for dominance, the escalated version of this which is a real fight, and then an all out fight for survival. How do your experiences with these two compare? I saw the one video where cera had littlefoot by the leg- any fear that these altercations can escalate into an all out fight for survival? I am pretty sure Daniel Bennett wrote that he believes combat is fairly common, but had no reason to suspect these lizards ever faught to the death, I just wonder how/if captivity changes that. Just curious- I have no access to anyone that has ever kept two males together, and just want some insight on what that is like.

OK, very good question.

My answer may not win any popularity contests, but this is one huge biology experiment to prove a point about well heated animals behaving and thriving completely in contrast to the norm.

Do I fear permanent injury or death? of course I do. This is an inherent risk with cohabbing any animals.

However, I find these behaviours interesting, and I plan to keep these two together until it's impossible to do.

Either it works out or it don't.

[KORBIN5895]

OK, very good question.

My answer may not win any popularity contests, but this is one huge biology experiment to prove a point about well heated animals behaving and thriving completely in contrast to the norm.

Do I fear permanent injury or death? of course I do. This is an inherent risk with cohabbing any animals.

However, I find these behaviours interesting, and I plan to keep these two together until it's impossible to do.

Either it works out or it don't.

I like this thought process.

Has it been a year already?!?!?!?!

[infernalis]

I like this thought process.

Has it been a year already?!?!?!?!

year and a half my man... already planning that big cage upgrade.

[KORBIN5895]

year and a half my man... already planning that big cage upgrade.

Wow.... where has the time gone?

[guidofatherof5]

Great video Wayne. I see a little bite didn't stop feeding.

[moshirimon]

Love how lean they are

[Vegasarah]

How often do you feed them like this and how many do they get? Just curious :)

Them stuffing themselves into that pipe still is too funny. I remember when that pipe was huge compared to them! Great video, Wayne. I'm back on here now lurking around- I didn't abandon you guys :)

[infernalis]

ha6hv6m9_6s

http://www.savannahmonitor.net/HD/chixwar.jpg

http://www.savannahmonitor.net/HD/mouth.jpg

http://www.savannahmonitor.net/HD/tuggo.jpg

http://www.savannahmonitor.net/HD/eatin.jpg

[Tenodera]

such vigor! Did you only give them one chick at a time or is one a particular fast feeder?

[infernalis]

such vigor! Did you only give them one chick at a time or is one a particular fast feeder?

They take varying amounts of time to swallow.

This feeding was six chicks, three for each lizard, once they started tugging them in half, it seemed like they wanted to do this, ignoring other food and continue to make this mess.

[boosh96]

I watched some of your Youtube videos, and I have to reiterate that these two are pretty much the coolest things ever.. If I had the resources to properly keep a Sav I'd do it in a heartbeat.

[infernalis]

Congratulations my ever so popular lizards, they have 31 thousand views on this thread from all corners of the globe!

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/duobask.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/lookhole.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/outlook.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/posture.jpg

[Akuma223]

Those are some damn fine lizards you got there, I love how they stand tall and look so proud.

[infernalis]

Those are some damn fine lizards you got there, I love how they stand tall and look so proud.

Thank you!

[infernalis]

http://www.varanid.us/2013/mousnut.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/peekinU.jpg

Look at that hand and tell me that it does not almost look like a primate hand. Such incredible animals.

http://www.varanid.us/2013/hand.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/LFpaw.jpg

http://www.varanid.us/2013/eatin.jpg

[thinkbig317]

Awww.....totally awesome! CONGRATS!!!! LOVE savs!

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/fauna/flick.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/fauna/limbs.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/fauna/head.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/fauna/loggin.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/fauna/mouse.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/fauna/peekin.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/fauna/snout.jpg

[Mikoh4792]

Did you make changes to the enclosure since your last video? I didn't see the plants last time. Looking real nice and naturalistic with them planted in.

[Lankyrob]

Awesome mate! Totally awesome!

[infernalis]

Did you make changes to the enclosure since your last video? I didn't see the plants last time. Looking real nice and naturalistic with them planted in.

I am always making changes to the lanscape. Keeps them from getting bored.

[alessia55]

Are you still thinking of making a bigger enclosure Wayne?
Littlefoot & Cera look great as always. They are thriving in your care!

[B_Aller]

get some damn females Wayne! :)
I'm digging up a nest today, seriously you are missing out on a good chunk of the fun and learning. Plus I think your observation would be valuable.
Best.

[franks]

Love the new foliage. They look lean and strong Wayne, you are doing a great job with them. Also- thanks for being so outspoken regarding proper care. The monitor community appreciates it.

[infernalis]

Love the new foliage. They look lean and strong Wayne, you are doing a great job with them. Also- thanks for being so outspoken regarding proper care. The monitor community appreciates it.

Thanks. Trying my best to keep them lean and strong. Sorting out details on getting them more room shortly.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/loggie.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/noelly.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/wormslam.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/chix/yumface.jpg

[alessia55]

Wayne your most recent photos really makes me think they look like mini dinosaurs...unreal. You are doing a superb job :cool:

[SnoopySnake]

They do look like dinosaurs, hehe. They're amazing, their enclosure looks awesome! They look great! I've learned so much about monitors since joining this site, they seem like such amazing animals, I would love to have a Sav one day :p No day soon though :)

[guidofatherof5]

They sure are growing well.

[Pirarucu]

They made quick work of all the new foliage in their cage, LOL.

[infernalis]

They destroy tree limbs in just a couple days. I think they get one more this season and then it's leaves for the rest of the year.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanustalk.info/LFcera/floorfoot.jpg

http://www.varanustalk.info/LFcera/littlefoot.jpg

http://www.varanustalk.info/LFcera/kingfoot.jpg

[shaunyboy]

looking good Wayne.....

ive not checked their progress in a while,they're pretty big now mate

cheers shaun

[infernalis]

looking good Wayne.....

ive not checked their progress in a while,they're pretty big now mate

cheers shaun

Yes Shaun they are. a yard long each tail tip to snout.

Started clearing out the space to the right of their enclosure to add another 8 feet to it, this side taller for more climbing opportunity.

I want desperately to keep them slender and fit for life.

[shaunyboy]

Yes Shaun they are. a yard long each tail tip to snout.

Started clearing out the space to the right of their enclosure to add another 8 feet to it, this side taller for more climbing opportunity.

I want desperately to keep them slender and fit for life.

i did'nt realise they were that big mate :shocked::shocked:


i keep all my Carpets lean and muscular,imo most folk overfeed snakes in captivity

cheers shaun

[Pirarucu]

i did'nt realise they were that big mate :shocked::shocked:


i keep all my Carpets lean and muscular,imo most folk overfeed snakes in captivity

cheers shaunCouldn't agree more. Not too surprising though, considering most people overfeed themselves too.

[Toothless]

Couldn't agree more. Not too surprising though, considering most people overfeed themselves too.
BAHAHA!! I got a good laugh from that. Very true indeed!

Looking good Wayne! I look forward to hearing how they use the climbing opportunities you plan to incorporate- and maybe grab some ideas :yes:.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/superworms.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/diggum.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/mousie.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/burrow.jpg

[V87]

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/superworms.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/diggum.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/mousie.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/burrow.jpg

Don't u have anything else to share Wayne these two are boring ...:wacky:

love these two really

[franks]

Look great wayne- glad they are doing so well with you.

[guidofatherof5]

Nice to see them Wayne. Growing like weeds. Good update.

[Pirarucu]

More pictures please! A video would be good too, LOL.

[lisas]

They look wonderful - I read all of your posts concerning monitors and it sounds like you are the man. Thanks for all of your advice to folks concerning their complex needs. I'll never get any myself, but you're doing a great thing sharing your invaluable knowledge. They are fascinating and beautiful creatures for sure.

[infernalis]

Thanks everyone...

My latest video, Before anyone gives me any negative feedback about feeding Cera a snake, The snake was one of my pet milks that died, I had it in the freezer and rather than let it go to waste, I fed it to the lizards.

I do not wish to discuss the "morals" of doing it. If I had buried the carcass, worms and bugs would have eaten it anyway.

_lnaXjR5w2E

[Hurrok]

These two are getting big! They look really healthy too, nice and athletic. As for the snake....sorry for your loss but it was put to good use, all comes down to the food chain and natures way. Thanks for posting! :)

[infernalis]

as I figured.. a few thumbs down on the youtube already.

I know it's because I fed them a snake.

[Donnie]

It was interesting to see how Cera made sure that the snake was dead before eating it but the worms, mice and other items I have seen you feed them they just eat right down.

[murrindindi]

as I figured.. a few thumbs down on the youtube already.

I know it's because I fed them a snake.

Hi Wayne, "morally" you did the right thing, you fed your captive monitor a nutritious meal that had died naturally, if you hadn`t done that other animals would have consumed it (the inverts).
Maybe you can ask those who criticise what they feed on themselves, and if animal, what the difference is apart from much of what we eat didn`t die naturally, and were, I believe, in good health at the time of slaughter (emphasis on the word slaughter)...

They`re looking in nice condition, well done....

[boosh96]

Thanks everyone...

My latest video, Before anyone gives me any negative feedback about feeding Cera a snake, The snake was one of my pet milks that died, I had it in the freezer and rather than let it go to waste, I fed it to the lizards.

I do not wish to discuss the "morals" of doing it. If I had buried the carcass, worms and bugs would have eaten it anyway.

_lnaXjR5w2E

Wayne, I hope you know someone's going to write you about this in a hateful/nasty way, telling you what a horrible thing you've done while they're chowing down on a cheeseburger and not thinking twice about how it got there. All kidding aside, the video's interesting and your monitors are the best. Keep up the good work with them!

[infernalis]

It was interesting to see how Cera made sure that the snake was dead before eating it but the worms, mice and other items I have seen you feed them they just eat right down.

The lizards know what they are consuming ;)

The mice and chicks are always F/T

and thanks for the supportive comments people.

[guidofatherof5]

They are looking good Wayne. Nice work.

[Pirarucu]

Looking great Wayne. Never understood why some people get so upset seeing reptiles eating other reptiles. When you turned up the soil, how was that big branch on the right doing under all the soil? Rotting away at all?

[infernalis]

Looking great Wayne. Never understood why some people get so upset seeing reptiles eating other reptiles. When you turned up the soil, how was that big branch on the right doing under all the soil? Rotting away at all?

That was cut from one of the hardest tree species available in the woods, My chain saw was dull after 3 cuts.

It's a species of Locust wood that that grows out back, The wood is extremely hard, resistant to rot, and very long lasting - making it prized for a wide variety of outdoor applications including boat building. The reason for the rot resistance is the presence of tyloses and extractives in the wood. Tyloses are bulges of plant tissue that make the wood water tight.

That log will last 100 years.

[Akuma223]

Sweet stuff man, they look great.

[Pirarucu]

That was cut from one of the hardest tree species available in the woods, My chain saw was dull after 3 cuts.

It's a species of Locust wood that that grows out back, The wood is extremely hard, resistant to rot, and very long lasting - making it prized for a wide variety of outdoor applications including boat building. The reason for the rot resistance is the presence of tyloses and extractives in the wood. Tyloses are bulges of plant tissue that make the wood water tight.

That log will last 100 years.Sweet... That sort of thing would actually be useful for people to know, a list of what species work best for monitor branches.

[mdfmonitor]

Wayne get some females!! it's nice to see how they should really look if kept right!!

Also i mean mons just in case the other half is looking over your shoulder & worried :)

[infernalis]

thanks Mark!

http://www.varanustalk.info/lizards/pipehole.jpg

http://www.varanustalk.info/lizards/tile1.jpg

http://www.varanustalk.info/lizards/tile2.jpg

http://www.varanustalk.info/lizards/tile3.jpg

http://www.varanustalk.info/lizards/chickpipe.jpg

http://www.varanustalk.info/lizards/burrow.jpg

http://www.varanustalk.info/lizards/profile.jpg

[Pirarucu]

The third picture makes it look like he's popping out of the dirt and diving straight back in.

[infernalis]

The third picture makes it look like he's popping out of the dirt and diving straight back in.

Tremors (the movie)

************************************************** *******

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/twoholes.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/azilla.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/CeraPipe.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/tongue.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/cage.jpg

[simpleyork]

Looking good there Wayne. funny thing about the snake is my adult ornate monitor won't touch snakes or the invasive bullfrogs we have out here.

[mdfmonitor]

Thanks everyone...

My latest video, Before anyone gives me any negative feedback about feeding Cera a snake, The snake was one of my pet milks that died, I had it in the freezer and rather than let it go to waste, I fed it to the lizards.

I do not wish to discuss the "morals" of doing it. If I had buried the carcass, worms and bugs would have eaten it anyway.

_lnaXjR5w2E

Wayne was that the dominant male approaching from the basking light area towards the end (worm feeding)?

Liked the way he approached head down & long straight body as if to say these are mine!!

[infernalis]

Wayne was that the dominant male approaching from the basking light area towards the end (worm feeding)?

Liked the way he approached head down & long straight body as if to say these are mine!!

Yes that was. Cera is certainly king of the enclosure.

I have to pay attention that food is distributed evenly, or Littlefoot would never get any.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/exanthematicus.jpg

These guys like the basking spot HOT...

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/hot.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/tough.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/tripod.jpg

[mdfmonitor]

Yes that was. Cera is certainly king of the enclosure.

I have to pay attention that food is distributed evenly, or Littlefoot would never get any.

I could see you feed them evenly!

It's that kind of stuff i like to see, the different behaviours they present in different situations!

they look well!!

[mdfmonitor]

http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/exanthematicus.jpg

These guys like the basking spot HOT...


http://www.varanuspark.com/LFcEra/tough.jpg


I was trying to find a pic that shows the lack of muscle tone from not been able to dig in deep substrate, this is the best i could find, you can see a big difference in the upper forearms that are used for the main digging>
http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac357/MDFMONITOR/PictureorVideo195.jpg (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/MDFMONITOR/media/PictureorVideo195.jpg.html)

I should delete these pics!! but i think you should always remember were you started!

[CosmicOwl]

This thread makes me want a monitor, but I know that I can't provide the right environment for them yet. Maybe some day.

[ReptileSeeker]

Awesome...

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/excuseme.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/dirty.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/collapse.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/tunnelfall.jpg

[Lankyrob]

Beautiful!

[formica]

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/dirty.jpg


mouth full of mud, haha love it

[infernalis]

The most epic of tripods yet, Cera stayed upright for a long time inspecting the lights...

http://www.varanus.us/podding/cerapod.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/podding/cerapod2.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/podding/cerapod3.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/podding/charge.jpg

34WhWhH9r8w

[Skits]

Been looking at this thread a few times a week since you got Littlefoot and Cera, it's amazing how much they've grown and how great they look! Very nice job with them! :)

[Tsubaki]

Been reading through this topic and finally reached the end, these animals are amazing! I love to see how well you care for them, they look very healthy and strong. Not fat and lazy as you see a lot of monitors in captivity nowadays. And they are beautiful! Been a lot of fun watching them grow up through pictures and movies, the were so tiny and shy at first! Their names are very fitting, i loved those movies as a kid. Hearing the name Cera always reminds me of what happened her voice-actor though... Anyway, Very nice!!

I will keep looking out for updates :D

[infernalis]

tried to eat the cat....

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/confront.jpg

mouth full of cat hair..

http://www.varanuspark.com/HD/hair.jpg

[Tsubaki]

doesn't seem to be a very smart cat!

[philbyi-guy]

wow. good to see such healthy and happy savs.

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/newpics/Savannah%20Monitor.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/newpics/face.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/newpics/hole.jpg

Extended tripods are the norm here. always curious about what is going on.

http://www.varanuspark.com/newpics/pod.jpg

[infernalis]

One of them managed to force the pipe into spliiting. This is amazing strength, since they used sheer muscle and not impact to fracture a brick tile pipe!

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/broken.jpg

The treated (rot proof) wood and aluminum is still in perfect shape....

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/floor.jpg

Littlefoot rising from the pile

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/head.jpg

Cera investigates...

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/cera.jpg

[infernalis]

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/pair.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/Peekin.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/pileD.jpg

They are not real pleased with what I am up to here....

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/pissed.jpg

[Tsubaki]

Wow, broke that tube in half :O Such powerful creatures.. They're looking great as always!

[guidofatherof5]

Looks like they keep busy. Great update.

[Alisa-D]

They are awesome. I have just spent the last few days getting through the whole thread.

I could make a similar thread about mine if people where interested :D

[infernalis]

I could make a similar thread about mine if people where interested :D


Go ahead...:cool:

I would be interested.

[Tsubaki]

They are awesome. I have just spent the last few days getting through the whole thread.

I could make a similar thread about mine if people where interested :D

I'd read it :D

[jpsteele80]

Absolutely cute little buggers and you should be glad that you didn't buy an argus monitor, that cat would have been toast at the first site lol

[infernalis]

My son was initiated into "bite club" when he found out the hard way that handling worms and getting worm slime on fingers is not the best idea....

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/bite.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/thumb.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/gaze.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/tripod.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/tongue.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/CLF/digg/tunnel.jpg

[sharthun]

Awesome miniature dinosaurs! Thanks for the update!

[Lankyrob]

Awesome as always Wayne. Would you kind me using one of the tripod pics as my desktop background?

[infernalis]

Awesome as always Wayne. Would you kind me using one of the tripod pics as my desktop background?

of course Rob...:)

anytime.

[Lankyrob]

of course Rob...:)

anytime.

Thanks. :)

[simpleyork]

http://www.varanuspark.com/newpics/Savannah%20Monitor.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/newpics/face.jpg

http://www.varanuspark.com/newpics/hole.jpg

Extended tripods are the norm here. always curious about what is going on.

http://www.varanuspark.com/newpics/pod.jpg
Love the photos wayne

[millertime89]

Imagine how epic long this thread will be in a year or two..

It's getting there... I haven't checked in on this thread in over two years it seems. Crazy how time flies. I'll get caught up eventually.

[guidofatherof5]

The kids are looking good Wayne.

[millertime89]

Just finished. I can't believe how big they are. When (and how) did you determine that they're both males? Must've missed it. Just a post number would be nice and I'll go back and re-read.

[infernalis]

Both have shown me wieners..

http://www.varanus.us/bush/bushy.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/bush/bushy1.jpg


http://www.varanus.us/bush/bushy2.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/bush/bushy3.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/bush/bushy4.jpg

[infernalis]

http://www.varanus.us/bush/Brush5.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/bush/bush1.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/bush/bush2.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/bush/bush3.jpg

http://www.varanus.us/bush/bush4.jpg

[guidofatherof5]

About the wiener thing, I, I got nothing:D

[Vegasarah]

Sigh. Beautiful as always. I love these two! Quick question, do they allow you to pick them up to be out of the enclosure or do they figure out their own ways in and out?

[simpleyork]

Any Updates? Miss seeing these monitors