Ridge-tailed Monitor
Varanus acanthurus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernReptilia · Varanidae
About
The spiny-tailed monitor, also known as the Australian spiny-tailed monitor, the ridge-tailed monitor the Ackie dwarf monitor, and colloquially simply ackie monitor, is an Australian species of lizard belonging to the genus of monitor lizards (Varanus).
Fun Fact
Ridge-tailed monitors can store fat in their thick tails to survive prolonged dry periods in Australian deserts — their tail acts as a portable energy reserve.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Native to northern Australia, from Broome on the west coast, through the Kimberley and the Top End, to the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Diet
Prey mainly on arthropods and other invertebrates, such as grasshoppers, beetles, cockroaches, spiders, isopods, caterpillars, cicadas, snails, stick insects, centipedes, crickets, and ticks.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance