Hi there — my name is Jewels, and 2026 is my year to find my forever family. 💚🐉 I’m a captivating Nile monitor with mesmerizing markings, a curious mind, and a gentle heart that’s slowly learning to trust again. I came into rescue in June 2023 after being found wandering alone through a parking lot 🏚️. Since then, I’ve been in a safe, loving environment where I’ve received patience, guidance, and care — and now I’m ready to meet an experienced human who understands what it takes to thrive with a large, intelligent monitor. 💛🎁 At first, I might seem shy — I like to quietly observe 🕯️ before stepping forward — but don’t be fooled! I’m clever, observant, and food-motivated, so treats are the fastest way to earn my trust (think of them as magical holiday potions 🧪). I can also be a bit feisty at times, especially when learning boundaries or during handling, so I’ll need a confident and patient human who respects my cues. 🎄 Nile Monitor Facts & Personality • Can grow up to 6.5 feet long and weigh 15–17 pounds — I’ll need a large, secure enclosure with space to climb, dig, and explore • Semi-aquatic — I love swimming, soaking, and splashing in shallow water • Highly intelligent and inquisitive — I can learn routines and recognize my keepers • With proper care, I can live up to 20 years, sharing many joyful holidays together • Need lots of enrichment — logs, tunnels, branches, and open space help keep me happy and healthy 🏠 Husbandry & Enclosure Requirements • Minimum enclosure should be large and secure, prioritizing length, climbing structures, and digging space - The rescue will guide you • Provide access to water deep enough to soak and swim • Offer logs, branches, hides, and enrichment to satisfy curiosity and exercise needs • Temperature gradient: warm side 88–92°F, cooler side 78–82°F • Humidity: moderate, with higher humidity during shedding • Strong, secure locks on all enclosure openings — I’m strong and clever! 🐍 I’m looking for a human who: • Is experienced with large monitors and expects a bold, intelligent temperament • Understands that building trust takes time, consistency, and patience • Can provide ample space, secure habitat, and enrichment for climbing, digging, and exploring • Will respect my cues, especially around handling and feeding I’m ready to bring mystery, charm, and a deep, heartwarming connection into the right forever home. Could 2026 be the year we find each other? 💚🏡✨ 💛🎁 If you’d like to make me part of your family, please click the Adoption Application button below — I can’t wait to meet you! ✨🐉 ✨ PLEASE NOTE: 1️⃣ 🎁 We can only accept applications from interested parties who are in or near San Diego County, California at this time. 2️⃣ ❄️ We do not ship reptiles 🚫✈️ but may be willing to work with you if you’re able to travel 🚗. 3️⃣ 🌟 #2 will depend on the animal you’re applying for and is at the discretion of the board of directors.