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Caring for Blue Tree Monitors

Mar 4, 2025

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.