🦎 General Info

Nile Monitors (Varanus niloticus) are large, intelligent, and highly active lizards native to sub-Saharan Africa, especially near rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They are among the largest monitor species, with adults reaching 5–7 feet in total length, males generally being larger than females.

Nile Monitors are extremely intelligent, strong, and curious, capable of forming bonds with experienced keepers, though they are not beginner pets. They are semi-aquatic, active hunters, and require spacious enclosures, proper humidity, and a varied diet. With optimal care, they can live 15–20+ years in captivity.

Enclosure

  • Size: Nile Monitors are large, powerful lizards requiring very spacious enclosures:

    • Juveniles: Minimum 6 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft

    • Subadults: Minimum 8 ft x 4 ft x 4 ft

    • Adults: Minimum 12 ft x 6 ft x 6 ft (larger is ideal)

    • Provide water features for swimming and areas for climbing and basking.

  • Material

    • PVC, wooden custom builds, or large glass vivariums

    • Must be extremely secure—Nile Monitors are strong, fast, and excellent escape artists

    • Adequate ventilation is essential

  • Substrate

    • Moisture-retentive substrates suitable for digging:

    • Cypress mulch

    • Coconut husk

    • Organic topsoil/sand mix

    • Depth: 6–12 inches to allow natural digging

  • Décor

    • Large hides on both warm and cool sides

    • Sturdy logs, rocks, and branches for climbing

    • Water area large enough for swimming and soaking

    • Plants (live or artificial) for cover

    • Plenty of open floor space for roaming

Temperature & Lighting

  • Basking Spot: 115–125°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

    • Some keepers have had success not using UVB but its beneficial

    • UVB lighting aids in bone growth and vitamin absorption

    • High-quality T5 HO 10–12% UVB is essential for bone health, Replace bulbs every 6–12 months according to manufacture

    • Nile Monitors are diurnal and require full-spectrum lighting

    • Day/Night Cycle 12–14 hours of light daily

    • Mimics natural diurnal activity patterns

Humidity & Water

  • Humidity: 60 - 80%

  • Maintaining Humidity:

    • Supports skin health, shedding, and hydration

    • Provide a deep, moist substrate and misting as needed

  • Water

    • Provide a large water feature for soaking and swimming

    • Change water daily or when dirty

    • Juveniles may enjoy more frequent soaking to aid hydration

Diet

  • Type: 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

Behavior & Handling

  • Temperament: Nile Monitors are highly intelligent animals, they are very strong large lizards and tend to be very active. As juveniles they can be really defensive growing into adults they can become more tolerant with constant, experience handling and care, however they tend to not be the most calm of the large monitors

  • Handling

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

    • Start with short, careful sessions

    • Use gloves or protective handling tools if necessary

  • Enrichment

    • Large water area for swimming

    • Dig boxes or deep substrate for natural behavior

    • Climbing branches and logs

    • Scent trails or live prey for mental stimulation

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

  • Veterinary Care: Professional veterinary care should always be consulted when you think your pet may have an issue. Watch for signs of illness, catching an issue early on goes a long way.

🦎 Final Thoughts

Nile Monitors are large, highly intelligent, and physically powerful reptiles best suited for experienced keepers. They require very spacious enclosures, proper heat and UVB, deep water for swimming, a varied protein diet, and consistent observation. With correct care, they thrive, display natural behaviors, and can become fascinating long-term companions.