Lecture Notes: Blue Tree Monitor Care
Introduction
- Species: Blue Tree Monitor (aberral lizard)
- Location: Batanta Island, Indonesia
- Common Names: Blue Spotted Tree Monitor
Suitability for Pet Owners
- Not recommended for beginners
- Requires specific care
Pricing
- Varies by country, age, sex, and spot vibrancy
- UK Price Range: €300 - €1,000
- US Price Range: Similar to UK
Physical Description
- Long slender body, strong legs, large claws
- Smooth elongated head with razor-sharp teeth
- Tail is two-thirds of the total body length
- Vibrant dark gray or black body with sky blue spots
- Size: Adults are 3-4 feet long
Habitat and Housing
- Initial Housing: Smaller vivariums for hatchlings/juveniles
- Adult Housing: Custom-built enclosures; minimum 6x3x3 feet
- Heating and Lighting:
- Smaller setups: Mercury vapor bulb for heat and UVB
- Larger setups: Separate heat and lighting bulbs
- Temperature:
- Ambient: 80-100°F
- Basking area: 104°F
- Humidity:
- At least 80%
- Methods: Mist twice daily, provide a water basin
- Substrate: Cypress mulch or rich soil, avoid mold with pond liner
Enclosure Setup
- Use vines and tropical plants for privacy and safety
- Include branches of various sizes for perches
- Daily replacement of drinking water; weekly cleaning of bowls and basins
- Regular substrate cleaning for waste removal
Handling and Health
- Handle youngsters carefully to avoid stress
- Avoid forcing interaction
- Stress and poor conditions lead to illness
- Regular fecal checks for parasites
- Prevent dehydration with misting and bathing water
Behavior
- Initially nervous, may become confident with age
- Typically skittish as juveniles
- Prefer to be kept alone or in pairs (not males together)
- Can become accustomed to human interaction if handled properly
Conclusion
- Blue Tree Monitors are a long-term commitment, capable of living 10+ years
- Require substantial research and preparation for proper care
- Offer beauty and companionship with proper handling and enclosure management
- Expect rapid growth, requiring frequent enclosure upgrades
Note: Always stay informed about best practices for care and monitor health regularly.