The soil of the enclosure is high in clay, and the monitors used this medium to dig an extensive and
interconnected tunnel system. The enclosure is secured by a 2 m high block wall with a smooth finish and
a one-meter deep footing, so as to prevent escape by tunneling. Hollow logs, tree stumps, and vegetation
provide additional cover. The monitors were fed 1 or 2 medium-sized rats approximately every three days,
and occasionally, their diet was supplemented with Tilapia, sardines, and a meat-based gelatin. In time, the
male adjusted to the presence of people and began feeding out of caretakers’ hands. In contrast, the female
has remained shy and enters a burrow or the water upon the first sight of danger