Bosc Monitor (Varanus exanthematicus) Care Sheet

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Quick Facts

Scientific Name: Varanus exanthematicus
Common Names: Bosc Monitor, Savanna Monitor
Origin: West and Central Africa
Adult Size: 90–120 cm (3–4 ft) total length; males are generally larger and heavier than females
Lifespan: 12–20 years in captivity
Sex Differences: Males are larger, more robust, with thicker tails and broader heads; females are smaller and slimmer
Beginner Suitability: Moderate – hardy but require large enclosures, strong feeding management, and careful handling

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Enclosure

Size: Minimum 180 cm x 90 cm x 90 cm (6 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft) for a single adult. Larger enclosures are strongly recommended to allow for activity and enrichment. Juveniles can start in smaller enclosures (90–120 cm x 45–60 cm x 45–60 cm) but must be upgraded as they grow.

Substrate: Use a mix of sand and soil (50–50) or coconut fibre for digging and burrowing. Include rocks, logs, and hides for enrichment. Avoid substrates that can cause impaction.

Hides: Provide multiple hides on both the hot and cool sides. Include cork bark, logs, or artificial caves for naturalistic hiding.

Heating: Maintain a hot basking spot of 35–38°C and a cool side of 26–28°C. Night temperatures can safely drop to 22–24°C. Use ceramic heat emitters or basking bulbs with a thermostat.

Lighting: UVB lighting is essential for health. Use a 10–12% UVB bulb covering a significant portion of the enclosure. Maintain a 12-hour light / 12-hour dark cycle.

Humidity: Maintain 40–60% humidity. Mist lightly if necessary, but ensure good ventilation to prevent mould.

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Diet

Primary Diet Type: Carnivore

Food Items: Feed gut-loaded insects such as crickets, locusts, and roaches for juveniles. Adults require larger prey such as rodents, poultry, or other appropriately sized carnivorous foods.

Feeding Frequency: Juveniles daily; adults every 2–3 days. Dust insects with calcium at every feeding and a multivitamin supplement once per week.

Feeding Troubleshooting: Ensure prey items are appropriately sized. Bosc Monitors are strong feeders; avoid handling during feeding. Variety helps prevent selective feeding.

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Water

Provide a shallow water dish large enough for soaking. Change water daily and ensure access at all times.

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Behavior And Handling

Bosc Monitors are generally docile but can be defensive when young or stressed. Handle with care and support the full body. They are solitary and should only be housed together during controlled breeding.

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Enrichment

Include rocks, logs, branches, and hides for climbing and exploration. Provide substrate suitable for digging and burrowing. Rearranging décor occasionally encourages natural behaviours.

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Health

Signs of illness include lethargy, refusal to eat, abnormal stool, respiratory issues, or swelling. Maintain proper temperature, humidity, and diet. Consult a reptile-specialist veterinarian if issues persist.

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Lifespan

Typically 12–20 years in captivity, with some individuals living longer under optimal care.

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Legality In The UK

Bosc Monitors are legal to keep in the UK. No licence is required for private ownership. Owners must comply with Welfare of Animals regulations.

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Difficulty Bars (Relative)