Monitor lizards are some of the most exciting captives that reptile enthusiasts can keep. They are always the center of attention at zoos and pet stores, where their dinosaur-like form captivates and entertains adults and children alike. While many species are inappropriate pets for all but the most experienced keepers, several of the smaller species make wonderful captives. Nevertheless, even the smallest species require relatively large cages and inordinate amounts of food, so keepers must consider the acquisition of a monitor lizard carefully. For those that choose to add a monitor lizard to their family, it is imperative to learn about the biology, natural history and habitats of these remarkable lizards. By doing so, you can gain a better understanding of their needs, allowing you to keep your pet happy and healthy for many years. Topics covered in this book: - Anatomy - Biology - Behavior - Taxonomy - Costs - Acquiring - Captive Habitat - Enclosures - Heating - Lighting - Temperature - Maintenance - Feeding - Hydration - Interaction - Health Problems - Breeding - Good pet species ----- and much more

Monitor lizards (genus Varanus) have attracted a great deal of interest--these large and impressive lizards are often the centerpiece of reptile house exhibits. Monitors tend to be fairly wary and difficult to observe--therefore they are not particularly tractable research subjects, but they have nevertheless received an extraordinary amount of attention from devoted students.Varanoid Lizards of the World is a comprehensive account of virtually everything important that is known about monitor lizards, beginning with detailed species accounts and proceeding to various modern comparative analyses. Where possible, people who have had detailed field experience with a particular species have assembled species accounts. In the process of reporting what is known, we also identify what remains to be learned about these lizards. We hope to establish a prototype showing how such a diverse monophyletic group can be exploited both to identify and to understand the actual course of evolution. As such, this effort becomes a protocol for future workers to follow for other groups of closely-related species.

Uromastyx are remarkable lizards, who inhabit some of the harshest environments on the planet. But with a little preparation and effort on the part of their keeper, uromastyx can also thrive in captive environments. But to provide one of these lizards with the things he'll need, you'll have to learn as much as you can about their biology, their way of life and the habitats from which they hail. You will find all of the information you need to give your new pet a good home and care for him properly inside. By incorporating the methods and techniques other keepers have developed, learning all you can about uromastyx and remaining observant of your animal's behavior, you'll have a great chance of giving your pet a long, healthy life. The author, Ben Team, is an environmental educator and author with over 16 years of professional reptile-keeping experience. Ben currently maintains www.FootstepsInTheForest.com, where he shares information, narration and observations of the natural world. Covered in this book: - Acquisition - Anatomy - Behavior - Biology - Breeding - Captive Considerations - Daily Care - Description - Diet - Ecology - Enclosure - Health - Husbandry - Interaction - Lighting - Maintenance - Monitoring - Myths and Misunderstandings - Taxonomy - The ideal environment .... and much more

A Primer on Reptiles and Amphibians is an innovative educational resource designed to forge a connection between the reader and the creeping critters of the world. Turtles, frogs, lizards, salamanders, snakes, and crocodiles¿ these animals evoke fear and fascination. This primer dispels myths and unlocks mysteries surrounding these diverse survivors which have mastered virtually every habitat on Earth. Tragically, these animals now face pressures of unprecedented severity, but there is still time to make a difference if more of us work together.Micha Petty is an international award-winning Master Naturalist and wildlife rehabilitator. This critically-acclaimed debut volume is a collection of Micha's interpretive writings, carefully crafted to make learning easy for everyone. These bulletins display his passion for Conservation Through Education while covering topics such as living harmoniously with wildlife, physiology, natural history, observation, and conservation. Flip to any page to be instantly introduced to new facets of reptiles, amphibians, the perils they face, and how you can join the fight to save them.