Customer Reviews

Monitors, Tegus, and Related Lizards (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book is very good and very complete in discussing various monitor lizards and basics about monitor for the beginner and intermediate keeper. Husbandry is mentioned in some detail. A good book to start with.

Dick Bartlett is not only a top-notch photographer, but an excellent reporter. His friendly, succinct style covers the essential nuts and bolts of monitor and tegu care. If you are looking for a good beginner's book on this subject, start here.

the book had more info on monitor lizards than tegus. The monitors were covered well but I was interested in tegus and there was not enough info on them.

The book has a lot of good information and is probably the best springboard to find more information on Monitors and Tegus. It doesn't have nearly enough information on Tegus and a reader would be lead to the conclusion that Tegus and Monitor lizards are very similar. This is not the case. They are very different. They are both intellegent lizards that look similar but that's where the similarites end. Unfortunately the only better source of information I've found is my vet and talking to breeders.

This is by far the best book I have found for tegus. It contains very detailed, easy to understand information. Although mostly focused on monitors, nearly all the information can be applied to tegus as well.

If you are going to get this book, please check out the section on Argentine Black & White Tegus. I have a few, and the information given in this book is fantastic. I am going to get me some more of these Argentine Black & White Tegus from Agama!

Whereas monitors receive moderate treatment in this book, Tegus seem to have been (literally) added as an afterthought. Many sections speak at length about varanid behavior for several pages, only to end with "Tegus are also somewhat like this except ..." (and a few words).

If you're serious about keeping monitors, there are more detailed and useful resources (The Natural History of Monitor Lizards, Monitors: The Biology of Varanid Lizards). This book does suffice as an account of common species and might serve as a good introduction and general reference to monitor husbandry.

Good and easy read for obtaining basic information on a variety of species. Can help guide you in making a decision if you are not sure what species to get. Also gives a good overview on health, care and handling, etc...

I have already read the Bartletts book about Green Iguanas and liked a lot. This one too has beautiful pictures and useful line drawings. The text is easy and comprehensive, with lots of important tips. I think it makes a complete hobbist book.