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Varanus tristis
The most widespread monitor in Australia and a small one. Western nominate animals can be all black, while the eastern subspecies is lighter and freckled. It is semi-arboreal and very fast.
The black-headed or black-tailed monitor is a small Varanus in the subgenus Odatria. It is the most widespread monitor in Australia, occurring over nearly the whole mainland and some northern islands such as Magnetic Island, and absent only from the far south and south-east. Two subspecies are recognized: the nominate V. t. tristis of the west and centre, and V. t. orientalis, the freckled monitor, of the north and north-east; the two overlap in places such as coastal Queensland. The nominate form is larger at up to 80 cm. Populations around Perth are completely black, hence the name tristis ("sad"), and animals become lighter farther north. V. t. orientalis reaches only about 60 cm and is lighter and more distinctly patterned with a less spiny tail. Hatchlings of both subspecies are brightly colored. It is semi-arboreal, sheltering under loose bark, in tree hollows and in rock crevices, and eats small mammals, lizards, frogs, bird eggs and chicks, and insects. In Japan captive-bred animals are occasionally offered by specialist shops.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Black-headed Monitor adult size: Up to 80 cm (nominate) or 60 cm (orientalis) total length
Origin
Most of mainland Australia except the far south and south-east
Size
Up to 80 cm (nominate) or 60 cm (orientalis) total length
Temperature
25〜32℃ (typical for Reptile & Amphibian)
Humidity
40〜70%
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Varanus tristis Schlegel, 1839
Synonyms: Monitor tristis Schlegel, 1839, Odatria punctata Gray, Varanus punctatus orientalis Fry, 1913, Varanus timorensis tristis (Schlegel, 1839)
Authority databases: GBIF · The Reptile Database: Varanus tristis · GBIF: Varanus tristis
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires an export permit from the country of origin, but no registration is needed to keep or transfer the animal within Japan. The genus Varanus spp., excluding the five species in Appendix I (such as the Komodo dragon), has been listed since July 1, 1975.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Varanus tristis
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Carnivore (insects, lizards, small mammals, bird eggs)
It is semi-arboreal and hides under bark, in tree hollows and rock crevices; use a tall enclosure with climbing branches and tight hiding spots.
Wild animals eat insects, lizards, frogs, small mammals and bird eggs and chicks; in captivity feed mainly insects, adding small rodents as it grows.
It ranges from temperate to tropical and arid Australia, and some populations are inactive for six to seven winter months. Provide a basking spot and a gradient.
It is extremely fast (one common name is racehorse monitor) and is known for curling its tail over its head and body while walking or basking.
The two subspecies differ in size and color, so check the subspecies and lineage. Males have clusters of spiny scales beside the vent, useful for sexing. Never release a captive animal into the wild.
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
Adult size of the Black-headed Monitor: Up to 80 cm (nominate) or 60 cm (orientalis) total length. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Black-headed Monitor feeds on: Carnivore (insects, lizards, small mammals, bird eggs). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Black-headed Monitor varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: October 12, 2026