Well clay burrowing substrate hurt my savannah monitor?

Question

Well clay burrowing substrate hurt my savannah monitor?

Answer 1

Stay away from the clay stuff. If it gets wet it will dry up and harden from all the heat.The best substrate for a savannah monitor is plain dirt with no chemicals or pesticides. If you have pesticides or fertilizer in your yard don't use it. If that's the case go to Lowe's/home depot and ask for plain dirt like you have in your yard. Get some of that and buy some play sand and layer them until you get 6+ inches of the mixture. Its great for holding humidity and your monitor will love to dig in it believe me. Mine makes tunnels and he has alot of fun digging in different places

Answer 2

stay away from that  clay stuff it is not a good substrate for monitors. a whole book could be written on this topic.  here is a link to explain what makes a good substrate for monitors

http://www.proexotics.com/FAQ2.html#45

this subject and heating  are the things MOST people get wrong when keeping monitors and unfortunately the monitors pay the price. good luck.

Answer 3

As jason h said substrate and heating are the most important factors in keeping monitor lizards it cannot be stressed enough. I have a mixed soil base with dry leaves on top. My soil is moist and damp, it helps with the humidity savannas like most other desert dwelling monitors tend to dry out fast and really need there humidity, it should be between 50-70% and they should have a basking area of over 100 degrees, they like it HOT. You should also have a large water bowl (so many people fail to relize) your savanna will spends lots of time in and out of it and will more then likely do its defecating in it. Check out jasons h's offerd site you will get all the info you need.