Q. My aultra sound isn't for another month and a half. I was wondering if there was anyway I could find out if I am having multiples early. I already have one crib, but I have a friend that is willing to go shopping with me for another(I got a discontunied crib the first time around) Please help!
A. Is It Twins? 10 Signs That You're Having Twins/Multiples
1. Ultrasound Confirmation
Seeing is believing... the only way to indisputably confirm a twin or multiple pregnancy is to see it -- via ultrasound. An ultrasound image can indicate without a doubt if there is more than one fetus. Ultimately, no matter what other signs or symptoms you have, the only way you'll know for sure is to have an ultrasound.
2. Doppler Heartbeat Count
Using harmless sound waves, a Doppler system amplifies fetal heart sounds, usually distinguishable late in the first trimester. An experienced physician or midwife can detect more than one heartbeat, indicating a multiple pregnancy. However, the sounds can be misleading; what appears to be a second heartbeat may actually be background noise or the mother's own heartbeat.
3. Elevated HcG Levels
For various reasons, doctors may monitor HcG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels. HcG is a hormone detectable in pregnant women's blood or urine about 10 days post-conception; it increases at a rapid rate, peaking about 10 weeks into the pregnancy. Twins may produce an elevated level of HcG. However, the standard HcG level for twins also falls within the normal range for singletons.
4. Abnormal AFP Test Results
AFP (Alphafetoprotein) screening is a blood test performed on pregnant mothers during the second trimester. Also known as maternal serum screening or triple marker screen, it is used to identify increased risks of certain birth defects. A twin pregnancy can produce an usually high -- or "positive -- result.
5. Measuring Large for Gestational Age
Throughout the pregnancy, the doctor or midwife may measure the height of the uterine fundus (from the top of the pubic bone to the top of the uterus) as a way of indicating gestational age. A twin or multiple pregnancy may causes the mother's uterus to expand beyond the range of a single pregnancy. However, other factors may also increase the measurements.
6. Weight Gain
Just as a multiple pregnancy may cause a mother to measure large, it may also result in an increased weight gain. How much weight a woman gains can vary depending on her height, body type and how much she weighed pre-pregnancy. Increased or rapid weight gain more than likely reflects eating choices rather than twins; generally, mothers of twins only gain about 10 lbs. more than singleton mothers.
7. Excessive Morning Sickness
About 50% of pregnant women experience some amount of vomiting or nausea associated with their pregnancy. Moms of multiples certainly aren't exempt, but neither are they doomed to a double dose. Only about 15% of respondents in a poll on this site reported enhanced morning sickness symptoms as an indicator of their multiple pregnancies. Experiences vary widely -- some do, some don't.
8. Early/Frequent Fetal Movement
Feeling a baby -- or babies -- move inside the womb is one of the most thrilling aspects of pregnancy. Although many moms of multiples do experience more frequent or earlier fetal movement, there is considerable disagreement among medical professionals on the subject. For some women, recognizable feelings of movement occur earlier in subsequent pregnancies, whether there is one baby or more.
9. Extreme Fatigue
This is the most commonly reported complaint during pregnancy with multiples. Sleepiness, lethargy and exhaustion during the first trimester can be enhanced because the body is working overtime to nurture more than one baby. In some cases, the fatigue can be attributed to other factors (work, stress, poor nutrition, having other children), but it can also be an indication of multiples.
10. History/Hunches
While the other items in this list refer to some kind of visible evidence -- exaggerated symptoms, abnormal test results, etc. -- we can't disregard the power of a mother's intuition. A family history of multiples, or a powerful hunch can be convincing indicators. Follow up with your doctor about these feelings.
1. Ultrasound Confirmation
Seeing is believing... the only way to indisputably confirm a twin or multiple pregnancy is to see it -- via ultrasound. An ultrasound image can indicate without a doubt if there is more than one fetus. Ultimately, no matter what other signs or symptoms you have, the only way you'll know for sure is to have an ultrasound.
2. Doppler Heartbeat Count
Using harmless sound waves, a Doppler system amplifies fetal heart sounds, usually distinguishable late in the first trimester. An experienced physician or midwife can detect more than one heartbeat, indicating a multiple pregnancy. However, the sounds can be misleading; what appears to be a second heartbeat may actually be background noise or the mother's own heartbeat.
3. Elevated HcG Levels
For various reasons, doctors may monitor HcG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels. HcG is a hormone detectable in pregnant women's blood or urine about 10 days post-conception; it increases at a rapid rate, peaking about 10 weeks into the pregnancy. Twins may produce an elevated level of HcG. However, the standard HcG level for twins also falls within the normal range for singletons.
4. Abnormal AFP Test Results
AFP (Alphafetoprotein) screening is a blood test performed on pregnant mothers during the second trimester. Also known as maternal serum screening or triple marker screen, it is used to identify increased risks of certain birth defects. A twin pregnancy can produce an usually high -- or "positive -- result.
5. Measuring Large for Gestational Age
Throughout the pregnancy, the doctor or midwife may measure the height of the uterine fundus (from the top of the pubic bone to the top of the uterus) as a way of indicating gestational age. A twin or multiple pregnancy may causes the mother's uterus to expand beyond the range of a single pregnancy. However, other factors may also increase the measurements.
6. Weight Gain
Just as a multiple pregnancy may cause a mother to measure large, it may also result in an increased weight gain. How much weight a woman gains can vary depending on her height, body type and how much she weighed pre-pregnancy. Increased or rapid weight gain more than likely reflects eating choices rather than twins; generally, mothers of twins only gain about 10 lbs. more than singleton mothers.
7. Excessive Morning Sickness
About 50% of pregnant women experience some amount of vomiting or nausea associated with their pregnancy. Moms of multiples certainly aren't exempt, but neither are they doomed to a double dose. Only about 15% of respondents in a poll on this site reported enhanced morning sickness symptoms as an indicator of their multiple pregnancies. Experiences vary widely -- some do, some don't.
8. Early/Frequent Fetal Movement
Feeling a baby -- or babies -- move inside the womb is one of the most thrilling aspects of pregnancy. Although many moms of multiples do experience more frequent or earlier fetal movement, there is considerable disagreement among medical professionals on the subject. For some women, recognizable feelings of movement occur earlier in subsequent pregnancies, whether there is one baby or more.
9. Extreme Fatigue
This is the most commonly reported complaint during pregnancy with multiples. Sleepiness, lethargy and exhaustion during the first trimester can be enhanced because the body is working overtime to nurture more than one baby. In some cases, the fatigue can be attributed to other factors (work, stress, poor nutrition, having other children), but it can also be an indication of multiples.
10. History/Hunches
While the other items in this list refer to some kind of visible evidence -- exaggerated symptoms, abnormal test results, etc. -- we can't disregard the power of a mother's intuition. A family history of multiples, or a powerful hunch can be convincing indicators. Follow up with your doctor about these feelings.
The most important things to know about taking care of a Crested Gecko?
Q. I've just got a 4 month old, In a nice Exo terra viv too.
I know the basics from research but to make sure can you professionals out there run me by everything Important I should know
I know the basics from research but to make sure can you professionals out there run me by everything Important I should know
A. Food...Feed Repashy brand crested gecko diet 3-5 times per week. If you wish to feed live insects, feed crickets or roaches (no mealworms) calcium dusted a max of one time per week or once every other week.
Water...Provide water in a shallow bowl, in addition to misting. I have seen mine drink from the bowl even shortly after misting.
Substrate...For a 4 month old, I highly recommend paper towel. This makes it easier to monitor poops (and therefore monitor feeding) as it's difficult to monitor whether or not a baby is eating by looking at the food bowl since they eat so little. As an adult, if you wish to get a natural look, you can use Bed-a-Beast or EcoEarth instead.
Humidity...Should be at 60-80% with a short "dry-off" period in between mistings. Depending on where you live, you might have to mist more than just once daily.
Temperature...Should be in mid to high 70s. If it gets higher than 85*F, get them in a cooler part of the house or use ice packs taped to the outside of their cage. If they're in 85*F+ temperature for long periods of time, they will become stressed and possibly become sick.
Caging...For a crested gecko under 10g, I highly recommend either a 12x12x12" ExoTerra/ZooMed or a Kritter Keeper. Once it's over 10 grams, then you can move it up to a 12x12x18, 10 gallon tank, or larger terrarium. At least one side should be screen for ventilation, but not all sides, as it may be difficult to keep up humidity.
Decorations...Make sure you have plenty of hiding branches/plants that provide a good amount of climbing space. You could have one hide on the ground if you wish, but they're unlikely to use it as they prefer to hide up from the ground.
Cage Mates...Never a good idea to mix crested geckos unless they are of breeding weight (40g for females) and it's either 2 or more females or 1 male per 2 females (if you want breeding...and even then don't keep the male in 24/7/365). Don't mix juveniles as one could be male, one female, and they will breed too early, making it possibly deadly for the female. Or they both could end up as males, which could bring up fighting. Even two females have to be watched closely for any bite wounds/fighting/etc and separated immediately if there's evidence of fighting.
Extras...Always make sure that the gecko sheds completely. Stuck shed can cut off circulation to toes/legs/tail and can cause a severe infection. One way to help it shed is to make a "crested gecko bath"... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSuirE906p0
Water...Provide water in a shallow bowl, in addition to misting. I have seen mine drink from the bowl even shortly after misting.
Substrate...For a 4 month old, I highly recommend paper towel. This makes it easier to monitor poops (and therefore monitor feeding) as it's difficult to monitor whether or not a baby is eating by looking at the food bowl since they eat so little. As an adult, if you wish to get a natural look, you can use Bed-a-Beast or EcoEarth instead.
Humidity...Should be at 60-80% with a short "dry-off" period in between mistings. Depending on where you live, you might have to mist more than just once daily.
Temperature...Should be in mid to high 70s. If it gets higher than 85*F, get them in a cooler part of the house or use ice packs taped to the outside of their cage. If they're in 85*F+ temperature for long periods of time, they will become stressed and possibly become sick.
Caging...For a crested gecko under 10g, I highly recommend either a 12x12x12" ExoTerra/ZooMed or a Kritter Keeper. Once it's over 10 grams, then you can move it up to a 12x12x18, 10 gallon tank, or larger terrarium. At least one side should be screen for ventilation, but not all sides, as it may be difficult to keep up humidity.
Decorations...Make sure you have plenty of hiding branches/plants that provide a good amount of climbing space. You could have one hide on the ground if you wish, but they're unlikely to use it as they prefer to hide up from the ground.
Cage Mates...Never a good idea to mix crested geckos unless they are of breeding weight (40g for females) and it's either 2 or more females or 1 male per 2 females (if you want breeding...and even then don't keep the male in 24/7/365). Don't mix juveniles as one could be male, one female, and they will breed too early, making it possibly deadly for the female. Or they both could end up as males, which could bring up fighting. Even two females have to be watched closely for any bite wounds/fighting/etc and separated immediately if there's evidence of fighting.
Extras...Always make sure that the gecko sheds completely. Stuck shed can cut off circulation to toes/legs/tail and can cause a severe infection. One way to help it shed is to make a "crested gecko bath"... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSuirE906p0
Would acid reflux cause my 7 week old to not want to eat?
Q. My baby has been vomiting (approx an ounce or so at a time) approx 1-2 times per day. He is breastfed and also takes a bottle with breast milk. Yesterday I was out of town and he wouldn't take the bottle at all.
Today he has eaten, but always seems hungry. Then when given a bottle for extra milk he is still really fussy.
Any ideas???
My son is being evaluated for acid reflux tomorrow...
Today he has eaten, but always seems hungry. Then when given a bottle for extra milk he is still really fussy.
Any ideas???
My son is being evaluated for acid reflux tomorrow...
A. Can it cause them to not eat- absolutely! Reflux is painful! If it is reflux there is a lot you can do short of medications, and certainly without using cereal (which is just a cosmetic fix btw!)
http://www.kellymom.com/babyconcerns/reflux.html#help
What can I do to minimize spitting up/reflux?
Breastfeed! Reflux is less common in breastfed babies. In addition, breastfed babies with reflux have been shown to have shorter and fewer reflux episodes and less severe reflux at night than formula-fed babies [Heacock 1992]. Breastfeeding is also best for babies with reflux because breastmilk leaves the stomach much faster [Ewer 1994] (so there�s less time for it to back up into the esophagus) and is probably less irritating when it does come back up.
The more relaxed your infant is, the less the reflux.
Eliminate all environmental tobacco smoke exposure, as this is a significant contributing factor to reflux.
Reduce or eliminate caffeine. Excessive caffeine in mom's diet can contribute to reflux.
Allergy should be suspected in all infant reflux cases. According to a review article in Pediatrics [Salvatore 2002], up to half of all GERD cases in babies under a year are associated with cow�s milk protein allergy. The authors note that symptoms can be similar and recommend that pediatricians screen all babies with GERD for cow�s milk allergy. Allergic babies generally have other symptoms in addition to spitting up.
Positioning:
Reflux is worst when baby lies flat on his back.
Many parents have found that carrying baby in a sling or other baby carrier can be helpful.
Avoid compressing baby�s abdomen - this can increase reflux and discomfort. Dress baby in loose clothing with loose diaper waistbands; avoid �slumped over� or bent positions; for example, roll baby on his side rather than lifting legs toward tummy for diaper changes.
Recent research has compared various positions to determine which is best for babies with reflux. Elevating baby's head did not make a significant difference in these studies [Carroll 2002, Secker 2002, Craig 2004], although many moms have found that baby is more comfortable when in an upright position. The positions shown to significantly reduce reflux include lying on the left side and prone (baby on his tummy). Placing the infant in a prone position should only be done when the child is awake and can be continuously monitored. Prone positioning during sleep is almost never recommended due to the increased SIDS risk. [Secker 2002]
Although recent research does not support recommendations to keep baby in a semi-upright position (30° elevation), this remains a common recommendation. Positioning at a 60° elevation in an infant seat or swing has been found to increase reflux compared with the prone (tummy down) position [Carroll 2002, Secker 2002].
As always, experiment to find what works best for your baby.
If your child is taking reflux medications, keep in mind that dosages generally need to be monitored and adjusted frequently as baby grows.
What about thickened feeds?
Baby cereal, added to thicken breastmilk or formula, has been used as a treatment for GER for many years, but its use is controversial.
Does it work? Thickened feeds can reduce spitting up, but studies have not shown a decrease in reflux index scores (i.e., the �silent reflux� is still present). Per Donna Secker, MS, RD in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease , "The effect of thickened feedings may be more cosmetic (decreased regurgitation and increased postprandial sleeping) than beneficial." Thickened feeds have been associated with increased coughing after feedings, and may also decrease gastric emptying time and increase reflux episodes and aspiration. Note that rice cereal will not effectively thicken breastmilk due to the amylase (an enzyme that digests carbohydrates) naturally present in the breastmilk.
Is it healthy for baby? If you do thicken feeds, monitor baby�s intake since baby may take in less milk overall and thus decrease overall nutrient intake. There are a number of reasons to avoid introducing cereal and other solids early. There is evidence that the introduction of rice or gluten-containing cereals before 3 months of age increases baby's risk for type I diabetes. In addition, babies with GERD are more likely to need all their defenses against allergies, respiratory infections and ear infections � but studies show that early introduction of solids increases baby�s risk for all of these conditions.
The breastfeeding relationship: Early introduction of solids is associated with early weaning. Babies with reflux are already at greater risk for fussy nursing behavior, nursing strikes or premature weaning if baby associates reflux discomfort with breastfeeding.
Safety issues: Never add cereal to a bottle without medical supervision if your baby has a weak suck or uncoordinated sucking skills.
http://www.kellymom.com/babyconcerns/reflux.html#help
What can I do to minimize spitting up/reflux?
Breastfeed! Reflux is less common in breastfed babies. In addition, breastfed babies with reflux have been shown to have shorter and fewer reflux episodes and less severe reflux at night than formula-fed babies [Heacock 1992]. Breastfeeding is also best for babies with reflux because breastmilk leaves the stomach much faster [Ewer 1994] (so there�s less time for it to back up into the esophagus) and is probably less irritating when it does come back up.
The more relaxed your infant is, the less the reflux.
Eliminate all environmental tobacco smoke exposure, as this is a significant contributing factor to reflux.
Reduce or eliminate caffeine. Excessive caffeine in mom's diet can contribute to reflux.
Allergy should be suspected in all infant reflux cases. According to a review article in Pediatrics [Salvatore 2002], up to half of all GERD cases in babies under a year are associated with cow�s milk protein allergy. The authors note that symptoms can be similar and recommend that pediatricians screen all babies with GERD for cow�s milk allergy. Allergic babies generally have other symptoms in addition to spitting up.
Positioning:
Reflux is worst when baby lies flat on his back.
Many parents have found that carrying baby in a sling or other baby carrier can be helpful.
Avoid compressing baby�s abdomen - this can increase reflux and discomfort. Dress baby in loose clothing with loose diaper waistbands; avoid �slumped over� or bent positions; for example, roll baby on his side rather than lifting legs toward tummy for diaper changes.
Recent research has compared various positions to determine which is best for babies with reflux. Elevating baby's head did not make a significant difference in these studies [Carroll 2002, Secker 2002, Craig 2004], although many moms have found that baby is more comfortable when in an upright position. The positions shown to significantly reduce reflux include lying on the left side and prone (baby on his tummy). Placing the infant in a prone position should only be done when the child is awake and can be continuously monitored. Prone positioning during sleep is almost never recommended due to the increased SIDS risk. [Secker 2002]
Although recent research does not support recommendations to keep baby in a semi-upright position (30° elevation), this remains a common recommendation. Positioning at a 60° elevation in an infant seat or swing has been found to increase reflux compared with the prone (tummy down) position [Carroll 2002, Secker 2002].
As always, experiment to find what works best for your baby.
If your child is taking reflux medications, keep in mind that dosages generally need to be monitored and adjusted frequently as baby grows.
What about thickened feeds?
Baby cereal, added to thicken breastmilk or formula, has been used as a treatment for GER for many years, but its use is controversial.
Does it work? Thickened feeds can reduce spitting up, but studies have not shown a decrease in reflux index scores (i.e., the �silent reflux� is still present). Per Donna Secker, MS, RD in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease , "The effect of thickened feedings may be more cosmetic (decreased regurgitation and increased postprandial sleeping) than beneficial." Thickened feeds have been associated with increased coughing after feedings, and may also decrease gastric emptying time and increase reflux episodes and aspiration. Note that rice cereal will not effectively thicken breastmilk due to the amylase (an enzyme that digests carbohydrates) naturally present in the breastmilk.
Is it healthy for baby? If you do thicken feeds, monitor baby�s intake since baby may take in less milk overall and thus decrease overall nutrient intake. There are a number of reasons to avoid introducing cereal and other solids early. There is evidence that the introduction of rice or gluten-containing cereals before 3 months of age increases baby's risk for type I diabetes. In addition, babies with GERD are more likely to need all their defenses against allergies, respiratory infections and ear infections � but studies show that early introduction of solids increases baby�s risk for all of these conditions.
The breastfeeding relationship: Early introduction of solids is associated with early weaning. Babies with reflux are already at greater risk for fussy nursing behavior, nursing strikes or premature weaning if baby associates reflux discomfort with breastfeeding.
Safety issues: Never add cereal to a bottle without medical supervision if your baby has a weak suck or uncoordinated sucking skills.
can you give me a care sheet on ackie monitors?
Q. I don't want a link and I looked at pet smart for care sheets on them bu there were none so i need you to type out what they need and how much everything will cost
A. Housing & lighting/heating
------------------------------------------------------------------------
For housing an Ackie monitor I would recommend a 3x2x2 (LWH) enclosure for a single adult. A 4x2x2 (LWH) enclosure can hold a trio for each additional animal I recommend adding an extra 1 �- 2 square feet of floor space. For baby ackies a 20 gallon long enclosure with a good top-soil substrate that is at least 4 inches deep (for babies). Make sure to cover at least � of the screen top of the 20 gal. When the monitors read at least 12 inches you can move them into their permanent enclosures. I highly recommend building a custom enclosure, with LITTLE ventilation. No open screen doors, tops, sides, etc. screen releases heat and humidity very, very fast. My enclosure is a modified 40 gal. breeder aquarium I have a solid � ply wood top with 1/8 inch holes drilled in it for ventilation and the basking light mounted inside.
I use exclusively 45 watt out door flood lights, and 50 watt floods. No need for the so-called �special� UVB bulbs, they are just rip-offs
I have my basking temperature at 130-140 degrees F (keep in mind those are surface temperatures NOT air temperatures. I have seen basking spots that had hot spots of up to 200 degrees F (again these are SURFACE temperatures). The ambient temp of my enclosure is about 75-85 F degrees. It is very important to offer a hot basking spot a warm side of the enclosure that is about 90 degrees F and a cool side of about 75 degrees F. I recommend leaving the lights on 24/7, but having photoperiods really won�t hurt from my experience. Humidity- about 55% humidity.
DO NOT use those stupid hot rocks they are dangerous for your reptile. Also I would advise NOT using heatpads because these lizards do dig to the bottom of their enclosures and will burn themselves.
Substrate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
One of the most overlooked aspects of monitor keeping (along with quarantining, and proper nutrition, and of course proper husbandry), at least by beginners to the hobby of monitors. DO NOT use bark, newspaper, or sand (at least 100% sand). Use good old dirt. If you collect pesticide free soil from outside then that is great. Dirt from creek beds is especially good for monitors. Make sure you sift the dirt in order to remove any rocks, bugs, twigs, etc. Now of you can�t collect dirt from outdoors than my number 1 choice would be gardenplus top-soil from Lowes. Holds moisture and burrows wonderfully. And is about $1.19 a 40 lb. bag.
Cage furniture
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some people have these elaborate beautiful set-ups for their monitors, but guess what, 9 times out of 10 these enclosure do no good what so ever for the monitor. I have 8 inches of dirt. And a terra cota flower pot base to serve as a hide spot and basking platform. You don�t need any of those fancy hide spots that cost 20 bucks they don�t make the animal feel safe. Remember keep it simple.
Feeding and nutrition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
I feed crickets, (I am currently thinking about switching to lobster roaches), and F/T hoppers. There is no such thing as a feeding schedule for reptiles, I offer food every day (1-2 hoppers 1 time a week), sometimes my monitor will eat sometimes he won�t he does what he wants.
Some words on Varanus Acnthuras as a captive
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ackies are by far the best monitors for novice to advanced keepers. They are plain fun to keep. I can say forget pretty much everything you have read about any monitor, because it is probably a bunch of bull anyway. Also remember that size does�t matter when keeping monitors, think to your self before you buy that Black throat monitor, can I really house a 6 foot lizard? Can I provide the proper food? Or should I look at a monitor that is more realistic and economical to me?
Here are some great monitor sites-
proexotics.com
kingsnake.com
varanus.net
treemonitors.com
mampam.com
themonitorspot.com
varanuscreations.com
some books to read-
The truth about varanus exanthematicus by D. Bennet and R. Thakoordyal
The natural history and captive husbandry of monitors by D. Bennet
The biology of varanids by King & Green
Nile Monitors by Robert Foast
and anything by Walter Auffenburg
some books NOT to read-
Savanna & Grassland monitors
Monitors and Tegus
Popular monitor and tegu species
TRY TO USE CRAIGS LIST TO FIND TANKS AND STUFF ITS CHEAPER
------------------------------------------------------------------------
For housing an Ackie monitor I would recommend a 3x2x2 (LWH) enclosure for a single adult. A 4x2x2 (LWH) enclosure can hold a trio for each additional animal I recommend adding an extra 1 �- 2 square feet of floor space. For baby ackies a 20 gallon long enclosure with a good top-soil substrate that is at least 4 inches deep (for babies). Make sure to cover at least � of the screen top of the 20 gal. When the monitors read at least 12 inches you can move them into their permanent enclosures. I highly recommend building a custom enclosure, with LITTLE ventilation. No open screen doors, tops, sides, etc. screen releases heat and humidity very, very fast. My enclosure is a modified 40 gal. breeder aquarium I have a solid � ply wood top with 1/8 inch holes drilled in it for ventilation and the basking light mounted inside.
I use exclusively 45 watt out door flood lights, and 50 watt floods. No need for the so-called �special� UVB bulbs, they are just rip-offs
I have my basking temperature at 130-140 degrees F (keep in mind those are surface temperatures NOT air temperatures. I have seen basking spots that had hot spots of up to 200 degrees F (again these are SURFACE temperatures). The ambient temp of my enclosure is about 75-85 F degrees. It is very important to offer a hot basking spot a warm side of the enclosure that is about 90 degrees F and a cool side of about 75 degrees F. I recommend leaving the lights on 24/7, but having photoperiods really won�t hurt from my experience. Humidity- about 55% humidity.
DO NOT use those stupid hot rocks they are dangerous for your reptile. Also I would advise NOT using heatpads because these lizards do dig to the bottom of their enclosures and will burn themselves.
Substrate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
One of the most overlooked aspects of monitor keeping (along with quarantining, and proper nutrition, and of course proper husbandry), at least by beginners to the hobby of monitors. DO NOT use bark, newspaper, or sand (at least 100% sand). Use good old dirt. If you collect pesticide free soil from outside then that is great. Dirt from creek beds is especially good for monitors. Make sure you sift the dirt in order to remove any rocks, bugs, twigs, etc. Now of you can�t collect dirt from outdoors than my number 1 choice would be gardenplus top-soil from Lowes. Holds moisture and burrows wonderfully. And is about $1.19 a 40 lb. bag.
Cage furniture
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some people have these elaborate beautiful set-ups for their monitors, but guess what, 9 times out of 10 these enclosure do no good what so ever for the monitor. I have 8 inches of dirt. And a terra cota flower pot base to serve as a hide spot and basking platform. You don�t need any of those fancy hide spots that cost 20 bucks they don�t make the animal feel safe. Remember keep it simple.
Feeding and nutrition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
I feed crickets, (I am currently thinking about switching to lobster roaches), and F/T hoppers. There is no such thing as a feeding schedule for reptiles, I offer food every day (1-2 hoppers 1 time a week), sometimes my monitor will eat sometimes he won�t he does what he wants.
Some words on Varanus Acnthuras as a captive
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ackies are by far the best monitors for novice to advanced keepers. They are plain fun to keep. I can say forget pretty much everything you have read about any monitor, because it is probably a bunch of bull anyway. Also remember that size does�t matter when keeping monitors, think to your self before you buy that Black throat monitor, can I really house a 6 foot lizard? Can I provide the proper food? Or should I look at a monitor that is more realistic and economical to me?
Here are some great monitor sites-
proexotics.com
kingsnake.com
varanus.net
treemonitors.com
mampam.com
themonitorspot.com
varanuscreations.com
some books to read-
The truth about varanus exanthematicus by D. Bennet and R. Thakoordyal
The natural history and captive husbandry of monitors by D. Bennet
The biology of varanids by King & Green
Nile Monitors by Robert Foast
and anything by Walter Auffenburg
some books NOT to read-
Savanna & Grassland monitors
Monitors and Tegus
Popular monitor and tegu species
TRY TO USE CRAIGS LIST TO FIND TANKS AND STUFF ITS CHEAPER
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
Title Post: How can I know if they are twins?
Rating: 96% based on 987 ratings. 4,3 user reviews.
Author: Unknown
Thanks For Coming To My Blog
Rating: 96% based on 987 ratings. 4,3 user reviews.
Author: Unknown
Thanks For Coming To My Blog
No comments:
Post a Comment