Description
Scientific Name: Varanus keithhornei
Life span: Up to 20 years
The canopy goanna monitor has a dark black coloration on the upper side of its body. These monitors have scales on its head that are not much larger in size and have a smooth texture. their tail has no keel on it. They are smaller in size as compared to other lizards and can grow approximately 76 -77 cm in total length. They are more robust than other lizards. It may also be differentiated from others by its body color and conical scales in the throat region.
Native Region/Habitat
Canopy goanna monitor lizards are endemic to Northeast Australia. These monitors can also be found in a small, less than 100 km2 region in the Iron Ranges of the Cape York, Claudie, Nesbit rivers, McIlwraith, and Peninsula in northern Queensland.
Behavior
The canopy goanna monitor lizard is arboreal in nature. In the wild, they spend most of their time in the trees and branches, particularly when they are not mature enough. These monitor lizards are diurnal that like spending a lot of time hiding or burrowing in tree holes. They occasionally descend to the ground. During breeding, females lay 2-4 eggs in 2 clutches. In captivity, Canopy goanna monitors depend on rodents, insects, and fruits.
Care As a pet/In captivity
Canopy goanna monitor lizards need a large enclosure to be kept in captivity. For a single monitor, the enclosure must be made of glass or wood 2 m in length, 1.4 m in width, and 2.2 m in height. The enclosure must be constructed to allow air and sunlight to enter. These monitors require hardwood branches, eucalyptus leaf litter, and a water dish in the enclosure for climbing and baking.
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