Ackie Monitor Care Guide

Adult Ackie Monitors require a minimum enclosure size of 6ft x 2ft x 2ft (180cm x 60cm x 60cm). Larger is always better, as these are very active lizards that love to explore.

Use a mix of sand, soil, and clay that can hold burrows. Never use 100% sand - it won't hold burrows and lacks proper humidity retention. The substrate should be a minimum of 12 inches deep to allow for proper digging and burrow construction. If breeding, provide even deeper substrate for nesting behavior. Under their hide, maintain substrate at 80% humidity for proper shedding and health.

Provide multiple hiding spots - both warm and cool sides. Most importantly, create a humid hide with moist substrate underneath (80% humidity) for proper shedding. Rock caves, hollow logs, and commercial reptile hides all work well. Ackies feel secure when they have options and proper humidity gradients.

Basking spot: 120-130°F (49-54°C), Hot side: 90-100°F (32-38°C), Cool side: 75-85°F (24-29°C). Night temperatures can drop to 70-75°F (21-24°C).

Provide UVB lighting with a 10-12% UVB bulb. Replace every 6-12 months. UVB is essential for calcium metabolism and overall health.

12-14 hours of light during summer, 10-12 hours during winter. This mimics natural seasonal cycles and helps regulate their behavior.

Maintain 20-40% ambient humidity in the enclosure. However, create a humid hide with 80% humidity in the substrate underneath - this is crucial for proper shedding and health. Too high ambient humidity can cause respiratory issues, while inadequate humidity under hides leads to shedding problems. Use a reliable hygrometer to monitor.

Provide a shallow water bowl large enough for soaking but not deep enough to drown. Change water regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

Light misting 2-3 times per week can help with humidity and provide drinking opportunities. Avoid over-misting which can lead to mold.

Dubia roaches, crickets, mealworms, and superworms. At Biggs Ackies, we gut-load all our feeders with organic vegetables for optimal nutrition.

Juveniles: daily, Adults: every 2-3 days. Feed appropriate sized prey - nothing larger than the space between their eyes.

Dust food with calcium powder 2-3 times per week, and calcium with D3 once per week. Multivitamin once per week for juveniles, bi-weekly for adults.

Ackie Monitors are naturally curious and intelligent. They love to explore, dig, and climb. Provide enrichment like branches, rocks, and hiding spots.

Start with short, gentle handling sessions. Our hand-raised Ackies are already well-socialized, but consistency is key to maintaining their trust.

Watch for excessive hiding, refusing food, or aggressive behavior. Stressed Ackies may also have dull coloration or lethargy.

Monitor weight, appetite, and behavior. Healthy Ackies are alert, active, and have bright coloration. Annual vet checkups are recommended.

Shedding problems (low humidity), respiratory infections (poor ventilation), and parasites. Proper husbandry prevents most health issues.

Seek immediate veterinary care for: difficulty breathing, bleeding, seizures, or prolonged refusal to eat (more than 2 weeks for adults).