What is a lace monitor?
The lace monitor is a large goanna of eastern Australia's forests and woodlands, growing up to about two metres long. It is Australia's second-largest lizard after the perentie.
Lace monitors are usually dark blue-black with cream or yellow bands and spots, giving them a lacy pattern. A banded form, sometimes called Bell's phase, has broad yellow and black bands.
They are expert climbers and often scramble up trees when disturbed. They eat insects, reptiles, birds, eggs, small mammals and carrion, and are known for raiding campsites and picnic areas for food scraps.
Nesting in termite mounds
Females lay their eggs inside active termite mounds. The termites repair the hole, sealing the eggs inside, where the mound's stable temperature helps them develop. Months later, the mother may return to help dig the hatchlings out.
Lace monitors are common in national parks along the east coast, from Cape York to Victoria.
They can bite and scratch if handled, so people should keep their distance and never feed them.
Did You Know?
Goanna is an Australian word that probably comes from iguana.