Crocodile Monitor
Common Name: Crocodile Monitor
Scientific Name: Varanus salvadorii
Names: Bindi
Locations: London
Diet
Crocodile Monitors are carnivorous reptiles and primarily feed on a varied diet of birds, mammals, reptiles, and eggs. They are skilled hunters and have been known to prey on animals much larger than themselves.
Average lifespan
In captivity, Crocodile Monitors can live around 15 to 20 years, though their lifespan in the wild is not well-documented.
Size
Crocodile Monitors are one of the largest monitor lizard species in the world. They can grow to impressive lengths of up to 2 to 3 meters (6.6 to 9.8 feet).
Weight
Adult Crocodile Monitors can weigh anywhere from 20 to 40 kilograms (44 to 88 pounds), with males generally being larger and heavier than females.
About
Crocodile Monitors are native to New Guinea and surrounding islands, where they inhabit tropical rainforests and coastal mangrove swamps. They are named for their long, powerful tails, which resemble those of crocodiles, and their ability to swim and hunt in water.
Size and behavior
Crocodile Monitors have a streamlined body, powerful limbs, and a long, muscular tail, which make them well-adapted for an arboreal and semi-aquatic lifestyle. They are excellent climbers and swimmers, using their strong limbs and tail to navigate through dense vegetation and water bodies with ease.
Diet and nutrition
Crocodile Monitors have a diverse diet consisting mainly of birds, mammals, reptiles, and eggs. They are opportunistic hunters and will consume almost anything they can overpower. In captivity, it’s important to provide a varied diet that includes a mix of whole prey items such as rodents, birds, and eggs, as well as commercially available monitor lizard diets and occasional fruits or vegetables.
Conservation status
The conservation status of Crocodile Monitors is currently of least concern. While they may face localized threats from habitat loss, hunting, and collection for the pet trade in some areas, they are still relatively abundant in their native range. However, like many reptile species, they may be impacted by habitat destruction and human activities.
Fun fact
Crocodile Monitors are known for their incredible agility and intelligence. They are highly curious and inquisitive animals, often exploring their surroundings and manipulating objects with their dexterous forelimbs. Additionally, Crocodile Monitors are excellent hunters, capable of stalking and ambushing prey with precision, both on land and in water. Their keen sense of smell and acute eyesight make them formidable predators in their forest and swamp habitats.
Call or visit your local Reptilia Facility to learn how you can adopt one of these amazing reptiles.
