🦎 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.

1. 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

2. 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

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

  • Replace bulbs every 6–12 months

  • Nile 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 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

4. Diet

Nile 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 are defensive; adults may become more tolerant with consistent, experienced handling

  • Not recommended for beginners

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

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

  • Seek a reptile veterinarian for serious symptoms

  • Regular check-ups are recommended, especially due to their size and strength

🦎 Final Notes

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.