chance at a nile

[reptilemama]

There's a local reptile rescue that has a famle nile that they are trying to find a home for. They say she is 5 1/2-6 feet, and has a typical nile temperment- "not cuddly, but can be handled with the normal precautions with a reptile of her size". They also say "as long as temperatures are kept cool, she is usually pretty calm", which makes me think she may not be kept in optimum conditions. I'm moslt ylooking for a lizard that could be used in education programs, and I realize that most niles do not have the right temperment for that. If I decide to go look at this animal, what should I look for? If she is indeed handleable, is there a possibility that she will do ok? Or is it likely that I'll get her home and get her temps where they should be, and she'll end up a holy terror? I also have to consider space and money- how much and how often do large niles eat? If it's one rat a week, I can handle it, but if it's one or two every couple days, I may have to reconsider. Also, would a nile that large need a cage larger than 2X8? I'd hate to have her crammed in something that's too small. On one hand, I want to help out the rescue, but on the other, I don't want to end up with a reptile that I'm not prepared for. What do you guys think?

[Pork Chops N' Corn Bread]

Well at that size she may not calm down ver much and if she does it could take time. I would say she would need a 10' by 4' minimum so you have room to work with her. You should be prepared to build a large cage or dedicate a room. Plus don't forget a monitor that size will eat lots and lots of rats and mice and all the eletricity needed to heat her to optimum temperatures. If you really want a nile for educational programs, I would look on kingsnake.com for a "dog tame" one. I would love to give my home to a needy monitor but we can't help every critter out. Just do what you think is right for you and most importantly for the animal.

Good luck!!!