Varanus varius

Description

Otherwise known as Goannas, they are Australia’s second-largest lizard. They have strong claws and powerful legs. There are usually black bars across the snout, throat and chin. They have black and yellow stripes along the length of the body and tail. The tongue is long and forked like a snake.

Distribution

Found in eastern Australia, their range extends from Cape York Peninsula to south-eastern Australia.

Oakvale Distribution Maps png Lace Monitor
Lace Monitor Distribution Map

Lifespan

The lifespan of many of our reptiles has not been studied in great detail, many are considered to live an average of 20 - 30 years.

Size

The head and body length grow to about 55cm long with a tail about 140cm long.

Diet

Lace Monitors/Goannas are predators and scavengers eating insects, small mammals, lizards, nestling birds, eggs and carrion.

Habitat

Much of its time is spent up fairly large trees. It forages on the ground but will climb a tree when disturbed. It is found in forests, tall woodlands and open tablelands and slopes.

Breeding

Mating takes place in Spring and Summer. The female Lace Monitor/Goanna lays from 6 - 12 eggs. These are usually laid in termite mounds, particularly those found in trees. The female digs a hole on the side of the termite mound lays the eggs and then leaves the termites to reseal the eggs inside the nest.