🦎 General Info

Mangrove Monitors (Varanus indicus) are medium-to-large, semi-aquatic lizards native to northern Australia, New Guinea, and surrounding islands. They are known for their sleek bodies, long tails, and striking dark or olive-green coloration with lighter markings. Adults typically reach 4–5 feet in total length, with males generally being larger than females.

Mangrove Monitors are intelligent, active, and curious, capable of recognizing experienced keepers. They are semi-aquatic, requiring ample swimming space, climbing opportunities, and a varied diet. With proper care, Mangrove Monitors can live 15–20+ years in captivity.

1. Enclosure

Size

Mangrove Monitors are active and require spacious enclosures:

  • Juveniles: Minimum 5 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft

  • Subadults: Minimum 6–4 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft

  • Adults: Minimum 8–6 ft x 4 ft x 4 ft (larger is ideal)

Include swimming areas and climbing opportunities.

Material

  • PVC, wooden custom builds, or large glass vivariums

  • Enclosures must be secure, as Mangrove Monitors are strong, fast, and excellent climbers

  • Provide adequate ventilation

Substrate

  • Moisture-retentive substrates suitable for digging:

    • Cypress mulch

    • Coconut husk

    • Organic topsoil/sand mix

  • Depth: 4–8 inches to allow natural digging behavior

Décor

  • Sturdy logs, branches, and rocks for climbing

  • Hides on both warm and cool sides

  • Large water feature for swimming and soaking

  • Live or artificial plants for cover

  • Plenty of open floor space for roaming

2. Temperature & Lighting

Basking Spot

  • 110–120°F for proper digestion and metabolism

Ambient Temperature

  • 80–90°F during the day

  • Cool side: 75–80°F

  • Night Temperature: 70–75°F (do not let temps drop below 70°F)

UVB Lighting

  • High-quality T5 HO 10–12% UVB is essential for bone health

  • Replace bulbs every 6–12 months

  • Mangrove Monitors are diurnal and require full-spectrum lighting

Day/Night Cycle

  • 12–14 hours of light daily

  • Mimics natural diurnal activity patterns

3. Humidity & Water

Humidity

  • Moderate to high humidity: 60–80%

  • Supports skin health, shedding, and hydration

  • Provide misting or a humidifier as needed

Water

  • Provide a large water feature for swimming and soaking

  • Change water daily or when dirty

  • Juveniles may require more frequent soaking to aid hydration

4. Diet

Mangrove Monitors are carnivorous, requiring a varied diet of protein and occasional supplements.

Staple Foods

  • Rodents: mice, rats, chicks

  • Fish and crustaceans

  • Insects: crickets, roaches, earthworms

Occasional Treats

  • Eggs

  • Lean meats (chicken, turkey, fish)

  • Small amphibians occasionally

Supplements

  • Calcium powder: 3–4× per week

  • Reptile multivitamin: 1–2× per week

  • Avoid excessive fatty meats

5. Behavior & Handling

Temperament

  • Highly intelligent, strong, and active

  • Juveniles can be defensive; adults may tolerate handling with experience

  • Not recommended for beginners

Handling

  • Support the entire body; never lift by tail or limbs

  • Start with short, careful sessions

  • Use gloves or protective tools if necessary

Enrichment

  • Large water area for swimming

  • Deep substrate or dig boxes for natural behavior

  • Climbing branches and logs

  • Scent trails or live prey for mental stimulation

6. Health & Lifespan

Lifespan

  • 15–20+ years with proper care

Common Health Issues

  • Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): from poor UVB or calcium deficiency

  • Obesity: overfeeding or low activity can lead to weight problems

  • Respiratory infections: from low temperatures or high humidity without ventilation

  • Parasites: monitor feces regularly

Signs of Illness

  • Lethargy or refusal to eat

  • Swollen limbs or joints

  • Respiratory wheezing or discharge

  • Poor shedding or retained skin

  • Sudden weight loss or bloating

Vet Care

  • Consult a reptile veterinarian for serious symptoms

  • Routine health checks are recommended, especially due to their size and strength

🦎 Final Notes

Mangrove Monitors are intelligent, semi-aquatic, and physically capable reptiles best suited for experienced keepers. They require spacious enclosures, proper heat and UVB, swimming areas, a varied protein diet, and enrichment. With correct care, they thrive, display natural behaviors, and can become fascinating, long-term companions.