Spiny-Tailed Monitor
(Varanus acanthurus)
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Animal Type
Reptiles
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Exhibits
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Range
Australia
Overview
The spiny-tailed monitor, also known as the ridge-tailed monitor or spiny-tailed goanna, exists in a number of sizes and colors throughout northwestern Australia.
The spikes ring the tail, directed backward from the body, making it difficult to pull the monitor from a rocky crevice where it may be hiding. The tail is also useful in hunting, as the lizard can whip it around as a large, spiky club to attack prey.
This species can be highly variable in color and pattern. Here at the National Aquarium, visitors can see the red phase spiny-tailed monitor, noted by its distinct brick-red color accented with dark and cream ringed spots.
A Note From the Caretaker
Visitors will often hear Aquarium staff and volunteers refer to these monitors as “ackies,” a nickname given to them by zoo professionals and herpetologists throughout the United States.
Quick Facts
Learn more about the spiny-tailed monitor! Did you know that this animal uses its tail to wedge itself into tight crevices?
The spiny-tailed monitor is native to the northwestern part of Australia, in habitats ranging from tropical to red sand deserts.
Spiny-tailed monitors are carnivores with a voracious appetite. Juveniles feed on insects, while adults feed primarily on smaller reptiles and mammals. At the Aquarium, the monitors are offered a variety of insects and small rodents.
The maximum length of the spiny-tailed monitor is approximately 2 feet, although their size varies based on the region where they’re found.
The spiny-tailed monitor is common within its range.
Raptors, snakes and other monitors all prey on the spiny-tailed monitor, consuming adults, juveniles and eggs.
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