The Blue Tree Monitor Care (Varanus macraei) is a visually stunning reptile known for its vibrant blue body with distinctive black patterns. Typically reaching lengths of 3 to 4 feet, this monitor lizard is slightly larger in males compared to females. In captivity, Blue Tree Monitors can live between 15 and 20 years, given proper care.
Their diet is varied and includes insects like crickets, roaches, and worms, as well as small mammals such as pinky mice. They may also consume fruits on occasion. To ensure their health, it’s crucial to provide a well-balanced diet supplemented with calcium and vitamins.
In their natural habitat, Blue Tree Monitors are arboreal, meaning they spend a significant amount of time in trees. Captive enclosures should reflect this, featuring ample vertical space with branches, perches, and hiding spots.
Temperature gradients are important: a basking spot should be around 100°F (38°C) with a cooler end of about 80°F (27°C), while High humidity, maintained between 60% and 80%, is also necessary, which can be achieved through regular misting and using moisture-retaining substrates.
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Species Summary
As arboreal creatures, they require spacious enclosures with ample vertical space, climbing structures, and hiding spots to replicate their natural tree-dwelling habitat.
Maintaining a temperature gradient is crucial, with a basking spot around 100°F (38°C) and a cooler end of 80°F (27°C). High humidity levels between 60% and 80% are also essential, which can be managed through regular misting and using a moisture-retaining substrate.
Appearance & Colors
The Blue Tree Monitor (Varanus macraei) is renowned for its striking appearance. Its body is a vivid blue, which is the most distinctive feature of this species. The blue coloration is often interspersed with bold black patterns, creating a dramatic and visually appealing contrast.
The patterns can vary between individuals but typically include irregular spots or bands. As the monitor matures, its color may change slightly, but the bright blue and contrasting black markings remain prominent throughout its life.
Their skin is smooth and sleek, with a robust and elongated body that supports their arboreal lifestyle. Their tails are long and prehensile, aiding in climbing and maneuvering through their tree-dwelling habitat. Overall, the Blue Tree Monitor’s vibrant and unique coloration makes it one of the most visually stunning monitor lizards.
Average Blue Tree Monitor Size
The average size of a Blue Tree Monitor (Varanus macraei) is typically between 3 to 4 feet in length. Males generally reach the larger end of this range, while females tend to be slightly smaller. This size allows them to navigate their arboreal environment effectively and makes them a manageable size for experienced reptile keepers.
Lifespan
The Blue Tree Monitor (Varanus macraei) has a lifespan of approximately 15 to 20 years in captivity, provided they receive proper care, including a balanced diet, appropriate habitat, and regular veterinary check-ups.
Blue Tree Monitor Care
Maintain a temperature gradient in the enclosure, with the basking area around 100°F (38°C) and a cooler end of about 80°F (27°C). Use heat lamps and under-tank heaters to achieve these temperatures.
High humidity levels are crucial, aiming for 60% to 80%. This can be maintained through regular misting and using a substrate that retains moisture.
Provide a UVB light source to mimic natural sunlight, which is essential for calcium metabolism and overall health.
Feed a varied diet including insects like crickets, roaches, and worms, along with small mammals such as pinky mice. Occasional fruits and vegetables can be offered.
Ensure a shallow water dish is available for drinking and soaking, and keep the water clean and fresh.
Enclosure Size & Dimensions
- Width: Approximately 4 feet wide to allow for horizontal movement and climbing.
- Depth: Around 3 feet deep to give them enough room to navigate and explore.
A larger enclosure is always better if space allows, as it provides more opportunities for exercise and enrichment.
Habitat Setup
Enclosure: Choose a tall, spacious enclosure to accommodate their climbing and vertical movement needs. A minimum size of 6 feet tall, 4 feet wide, and 3 feet deep is recommended. Larger enclosures are preferable if space allows.
Climbing Structures: Install various climbing elements like branches, vines, and perches. Use natural wood or reptile-safe materials, and provide a range of sizes and textures.
Hiding Spots: Include several hiding spots where the monitor can retreat and feel secure. These can be created with large hollow logs, cork bark, or reptile hides. Position them at various heights to mimic their natural habitat.
Temperature And Lighting
Create a basking area with a temperature around 100°F (38°C) using a heat lamp or basking bulb. This spot allows the monitor to thermoregulate. The enclosure should have a temperature gradient, with the cooler end maintained at about 80°F (27°C). Use a combination of heat lamps, basking bulbs, and under-tank heaters to achieve these temperatures, and consider using thermostats and temperature probes to monitor and regulate them effectively.
Provide UVB lighting to mimic natural sunlight, which is crucial for vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium metabolism. A UVB fluorescent tube or compact bulb should be used, covering a significant portion of the enclosure. The UVB light should be on for about 10-12 hours a day to simulate a natural day-night cycle. Additionally, include a basking light to help create the necessary temperature gradient.
Humidity
Maintaining appropriate humidity levels for a Blue Tree Monitor (Varanus macraei) is essential for their health. Aim for a humidity range between 60% and 80% to replicate their natural tropical environment. Regular misting, either manually with a spray bottle or through an automated misting system, helps keep the enclosure moist.
Use a substrate that retains moisture, such as coconut fiber, orchid bark, or a mix of soil and sand, to assist in maintaining humidity. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent excessive dampness, which could lead to mold or respiratory issues.
Water
- Water Dish: Place a shallow water dish in the enclosure that is large enough for the monitor to drink from and soak in. Ensure the dish is stable and easy to clean.
- Water Quality: Keep the water clean and fresh by changing it regularly, ideally daily or every other day.
- Soaking: Blue Tree Monitors may occasionally use the water dish to soak, which helps with hydration and skin health. Ensure the water is deep enough for the monitor to comfortably immerse itself if it chooses to.
- Accessibility: Place the water dish in a location that is easily accessible to the monitor. Ensure it is not placed near heat sources that could cause the water to evaporate quickly.
Food And Diet
A well-balanced diet is crucial for a Blue Tree Monitor (Varanus macraei). These should be appropriately sized to avoid feeding insects that are too large.
Occasionally, you can offer small mammals like pinky mice to add variety and ensure they receive enough protein. Fruits and vegetables can also be included in their diet but should be offered in moderation.
To prevent nutritional deficiencies, supplement their diet with calcium and vitamins. Use a calcium powder and a reptile multivitamin to dust their food items, following the recommended dosage on the supplement packaging.
Potential Health Issues
Blue Tree Monitors (Varanus macraei) can experience various health issues if not properly cared for. Nutritional deficiencies, such as calcium deficiency, can lead to metabolic bone disease (MBD), which may cause deformities, soft bones, and difficulty moving. Ensure a balanced diet and appropriate supplements to prevent this condition.
Respiratory infections can occur due to improper humidity and temperature. Maintaining proper humidity and temperature levels is essential to prevent respiratory issues.
Parasites, both internal and external, can affect health, with signs such as weight loss, abnormal feces, or visible mites. Regular checks for parasites and veterinary treatment if needed are important.
Skin issues, including shedding difficulties or infections, may arise from inadequate humidity. Proper humidity levels and a clean environment are crucial to prevent skin problems.
Behavior & Temperament
Blue Tree Monitors (Varanus macraei) are arboreal and spend much of their time climbing and exploring their vertical environment. They exhibit natural foraging and hunting behaviors, which can be encouraged in captivity through environmental enrichment and a varied diet.
They can be shy and may take time to become accustomed to handling. Generally, they are not aggressive but can be skittish and defensive if they feel threatened. Regular, gentle interaction is important to help them become more comfortable with human contact.
These monitors are active and curious, requiring a stimulating environment with plenty of climbing opportunities and hiding spots. They are solitary animals and prefer to live alone, as they can be territorial and may conflict if housed with other monitors.
Handling Them
When you begin handling, approach the monitor calmly and slowly. Use a secure but gentle grip to avoid startling or injuring the animal, and support the entire length of its body to reduce stress.
Begin with short handling sessions to avoid overwhelming the monitor, and gradually increase the duration as it becomes more comfortable. If the monitor shows signs of stress or tries to escape, gently place it back in its enclosure and respect its boundaries.
Always wash your hands before and after handling to prevent the spread of potential pathogens, and ensure your hands are clean and dry to avoid slipping or causing discomfort. By following these practices, you can help your Blue Tree Monitor become more comfortable with handling over time, fostering a positive and trusting relationship.
Conclusion
Regular monitoring of their health, diet, and environment, along with addressing any potential health issues promptly, is essential for their well-being. By fulfilling their needs and providing a suitable habitat, you can enjoy a rewarding experience with your Blue Tree Monitor With time and consistent, calm interaction, they can become more comfortable with handling and develop a trusting relationship with their keeper.