The Ackie Monitors, or Spiny-tailed Monitors, have rightfully won people’s trust and love as some of the most interesting pet reptiles. These small, active, and intelligent lizards originate from arid zones of Australia which makes them the interesting and valuable addition to the facilities of herpetoculture.
One of the most central topics that anyone interested in rearing of Ackie Monitors as pets has to understand is their growth process. Even from the initial day of their life up to the day they grow into adults, it is extremely important to learn about the size of these monitors so that one can be in a better position to take good care of them. Hence, as good reptile parents, it is our duty to see that they are healthy and this starts with knowing about their growth.
Source: Natural habitat and instincts of the Ackie Monitor
Scientifically known as Varanus acanthurus, Ackie Monitors can impress anyone with their appearance and they are original inhabitants of the Australia’s sandy territories. ESPN employs these monitors because they have some characteristics such as; Body marked with spots and bands, and the spiny protruding tail hence the name spiny tailed monitor.
They are relatively small to average sized lizards and therefore are more easily cared for by the reptile lovers than the monitor type.
Their small size, active temper and a variety of behaviors have made Ackie Monitors more demand in the market of exotic chattered pets. These reptiles are affectionate and tend to replicate with their owners while others are curious and very playful.
Due to their small size and general low maintenance needs they are considered good reptile pets for any level of herpetoculturist. Just as importantly, one needs to know what they are dealing with when in the wild and their inherent behavior and needs in order to provide for them the proper care in captivity.
Hatching Stage
As with most lizard species, newly hatched Ackie Monitors are as adorable and fascinating as the next man’s baby. Measuring roughly between 4 and 6 inches in length, hatchlings show a wealth of colouration, with reds, yellows and oranges about their bodies. Their scales usually show a beautiful complex of spots and bands unique for the species in question. However, these tiny reptiles are very much fragile especially if these are still in their early stages. This is due to the small size of these animals which makes them vulnerable to such factors as water shortage, changes in climate and other wild animals.
For this reason, it has been very important that they are provided with careful selected and safe environment for their survival. Environmental enrichment – ideal is to provide a small confined space with adequate lighting and temperature plus adequate humidity to protect them from ill health. Care must also be taken when feeding young Ackie Monitors of sighting age since this is also very sensitive period.
