Chinese Water Dragon vs Savannah Monitor

Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.

Chinese Water DragonSavannah Monitor
DifficultyIntermediateAdvanced
Adult size24-36 inches3-4 feet
Lifespan10-15 years10-15 years
Min enclosure75 gallon / 48x24x24 in6x3x3 ft (180x90x90 cm) for adult
Basking temp95-100°F120-140°F
Humidity60-80%40-60%
UVBYes - T5 HO 5.0 or 6% UVB (Ferguson zone 3-4)Yes - T5 HO 10.0/12% UVB, Ferguson zone 4
DietJuveniles: daily insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms) dusted with calcium; adults: every other day same insects plus some leafy greens.Insects (crickets, roaches, earthworms, superworms) and occasional pinky mice; juveniles daily, adults every 2-3 days.