Black Tree Monitor

Habitat

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

Wild Diet

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.

Behaviour

These lizards have a prehensile tail, which acts as a fifth limb allowing them to hang on to branches in the rainforest canopy.

Breeding

Little is known about the reproductive behaviours of this species. Black tree monitors are born in various shades of green, but turn completely black as they reach adulthood. 

Conservation

Black tree monitors are classed as Vulnerable due to the destruction of their habitat. They are also at risk from the illegal pet trade.