In General

The Lace Monitor is Australia's second largest lizard, second to the Perentie, Varanus giganteus. This animal performs a vital role in the bush as a scavenger, cleaning up dead animals. They are generally shy and will avoid humans, taking refuge in the nearest tree. However, when threatened they will lash out with their muscular tail. They are also known for stealing food from camp sites.

Diet

Small mammals, other reptiles, birds, eggs and carrion.

Habitat

Equally at home in dry woodland as well as rainforest.

Breeding

Breeding takes place during the warmer months of the year. The female will lay between 6 to 12 eggs in a termite mound in a tree by digging a hole in the side of the nest with her strong claws, which the termites quickly seal over after the eggs are laid. The mother sometimes returns to the nest to tear it open allowing the hatchlings to escape.

Conservation status

Common