Spiny Tailed Monitor - Five Sisters Zoo

A smaller species of Monitor lizard, the Spiny Tailed Monitor is closely related to the largest living lizard, the Komodo Dragon. Spiny Tailed Monitor’s scales come in a variety of colours including blacks, yellows, browns and reds, in spots on the body and banding on the tail. They are considered a secretive species and research is ongoing regarding their behaviour and ecology in the wild.

This species is known by other names including the Red Ackie Monitor and Ridgetail Monitor.

Facts

Diet: Carnivore; insects, some small reptiles

Weight: 0.3kg

Length: 65-80cm

Habitat: Australia; prefers rocky areas with desert conditions but can also be found in wooded areas with sufficient shelter and access to food.

Lifespan: 10-15 years under human care, undetermined in the wild

Adapted to Survive

  • Able to store fat reserves for times when food is scarce
  • The spikes on the tail help the lizard dig into its burrow and avoid being pulled out by a predator.

Threats

  • Climate change
  • Habitat loss and fragmentation

IUCN Conservation Status

Least Concern

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