Monitors
In Australia these lizards are sometimes called Goannas, Racehorse lizards or Bungarras. This group represents some of the largest lizards in the world. Australia has about 25 of the worlds 30 or so species of monitor lizards, with 18 of those naturally occurring in West Australia.
Monitors are considered to be the most highly developed of all lizards. With very muscular tails and strong hind legs equipped with long, sharp claws. The only lizard with a snake-like, forked tongue a good sense of hearing and keen eyesight, they are extremely well adapted predators.
West Australia has the worlds smallest (Varanus brevicauda) and the worlds 3rd largest monitor (Varanus gigantus). Having adapted to all habitat types, they may be terrestrial, arboreal and even aquatic. From rainforests to deserts, these ferocious carnivores have successfully occupied every part of W.A.
PERENTIE
(Varanus giganteus)
Description:
The perentie is Australia's largest lizard reaching over 2.5 metres in length. It has a long neck and a stout, robust body ending in a long, tapering tail. The colour is yellow or cream with tawny brown rosettes edged in dark brown on their back and they have dark limbs with white spots. The head and neck are pale creamy-white overlaid with a reticulated pattern of black lines and flecks.
Range & Habitat:
The perentie can be found in arid parts of South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory, it is usually found around rocky hills and outcrops. It often shelters in burrows, which it digs with its powerful front legs and claws. These may be extensive and have several escape exits.
Diet:
The diet of juveniles consists of other lizards, insects and small mammals. As they grow they will readily tackle large venomous snakes, rabbits, birds and their eggs and even small marsupials such as wallabies.
Comments:
The female perentie lays around 6-10 eggs in a burrow, usually beneath a large object such as a boulder. The brightly coloured young hatch around 7-9 months later.
