The Kimberley rock monitor (Varanus glauerti), also known as the Glauert's monitor, is a medium-sized species of monitor native to northern Australia. Half of its 80cm length is its long tail, which likely aids it in balancing. This species is arboreal and prefers humid conditions. These monitors live almost exclusively on rocky cliff faces but are also commonly found in humid forests.
A study in 2004 suggested that Kimberley rock monitors encompass two distinct species, thought the potential species have not been named.
This species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN (in 2010) due to its broad distribution, no major threats affecting it and the conservation measures already in place to protect this and other monitor lizards. There is scope for research into the affect a change in fire regimes may have on future populations. Illegal trade in this species also occurs, as all Australian species of varanids are banned from export. |
