Close-up of a textured, scaly lizard head resting on a branch, with a soft-focus background and subtle lighting.

Black tree monitor

Head to the top flight of our Tropical House to find our black tree monitors.

Black tree monitorVaranus beccarii

  • Class:

    Reptiles

  • Order:

    Squamata

  • Family:

    Varanidae

About the black tree monitor

This lizard is endemic to humid forests and mangrove swamps in the Aru Islands, off the coast of New Guinea.

They mainly eat insects, although larger monitors have been known to eat birds and even other lizards. Like other monitors they have long, sharp claws and strong jaws which allow them to hold on to their prey.

Conservation

Black tree monitors are classed as Vulnerable from loss of habitat due to deforestation within its small, restricted range. They are also popular in the pet trade.

Interesting facts