Adult Blue Tree Monitor – Varanus Macraei

The Blue Tree Monitor, scientifically known as Varanus macraei, is a striking species of monitor lizard known for its unique blue coloration. Here’s a detailed overview focusing on the adult Blue Tree Monitor:

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Adult Blue Tree Monitors typically range from 2.5 to 3.5 feet (76 to 107 cm) in total length, including the tail.
• Weight: Generally, adults weigh between 1 to 1.5 pounds (0.45 to 0.68 kg).
• Coloration: Adults have a distinctive pattern of blue spots and reticulations on a black background. The exact pattern and intensity of the blue can vary among individuals.
• Lifespan: They can live up to 15 years in captivity with proper care.

Natural Habitat

• Location: Native to the tropical rainforests of Batanta Island in Indonesia.
• Environment: Highly arboreal, spending most of their time in trees.
• Temperature: Prefers warm climates with daytime temperatures between 85°F and 95°F (29°C to 35°C) and a basking spot around 100°F (38°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to around 75°F (24°C).
• Humidity: High humidity levels of 70% to 90% are ideal. Regular misting and a humid substrate are essential to maintain these conditions.

Diet

• In the Wild: Diet primarily consists of insects, small mammals, birds, and eggs.
• In Captivity: A varied diet including insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms), small rodents, and occasionally eggs. Supplementing with calcium and vitamins is crucial to prevent deficiencies.

Captive Care Requirements

• Enclosure Size: A large, vertical enclosure is necessary due to their arboreal nature. Minimum dimensions should be 4 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 6 feet high for an adult.
• Substrate: A mix of soil, peat, and bark that retains moisture well. The substrate should be deep enough to allow some burrowing.
• Climbing Structures: Provide plenty of branches, vines, and shelves to climb on, along with hiding spots to mimic their natural environment.
• Lighting: UVB lighting is essential for their health, aiding in calcium absorption and preventing metabolic bone disease. A 10-12 hour light cycle is recommended to mimic their natural environment.
• Water: A large water dish for soaking and maintaining humidity. Fresh, clean water should always be available.

Breeding

• Mating Season: Typically correlates with the rainy season in the wild, but in captivity, it can be triggered by increasing humidity and temperature.
• Clutch Size: Females can lay between 3 to 6 eggs per clutch.
• Incubation: Eggs should be incubated at a temperature of 85°F to 88°F (29°C to 31°C) with high humidity, taking about 160-190 days to hatch.

Health and Maintenance

• Regular Check-ups: Regular veterinary visits are recommended to monitor health.
• Common Health Issues: Respiratory infections due to improper humidity, metabolic bone disease from lack of UVB lighting or calcium, and parasitic infections.
• Handling: Blue Tree Monitors can be skittish and may not enjoy frequent handling. With regular, gentle interaction, they can become more accustomed to human presence.