Varanus mertensi

(Glauert, 1951)

Vernacular names
English : Mertens’s water monitor
French : Varan de Mertens

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Varanidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Small monitor reaching 1.50 meters in length. Coloration brownish with beige-yellow round spots all over body and limbs. Head small and flat, yellow throat.

Range and habitat
The species is endemic to Northern Australia and can be found in the provinces of Queensland, Northern Territories and north-east Western Australia. Occurs in subtropical dry areas, always close to rivers or lakes.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species’ populations have dramatically declined because of habitat loss and destruction.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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