Yellow-headed Water Monitor - Five Sisters Zoo

The Yellow-headed Water Monitor, also called the Philippine Water Monitor, is a large monitor lizard native to the Philippines. Individuals are black, with yellow bands or blotches on the body and the head is often entirely yellow. They are able to sense prey around them like a snake, using a special sensory organ called a Jacobson’s organ. This allows them to smell and track prey in a different way, increasing the potential success of their hunts.

Facts

Diet: Carnivore; birds, small mammals, small reptiles, fish, molluscs and will eat carrion if available.

Weight: 5-10kg

Length:  1.5 to 1.8 metres

Habitat: Philippine Islands; prefers tropical rainforest, forest floor with access to waterways

Life span:  10-15 years in the wild, 20 years under human care

Adapted to Survive

  • Strong and sharp claws allow them to climb trees
  • Muscular tail acts as a rudder in the water to steer in strong currents

Threats

  • Individuals are poached for their skin
  • Pet trade

IUCN Conservation Status

Least Concern

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