Reptiles
Argus Monitor
Varanus panoptes · also called yellow-spotted monitor
Digging rapidly into a sun-baked riverbank, an argus monitor uncovers a clutch of crocodile eggs, a bold and opportunistic raid that reflects just how adaptable this large Australian lizard’s diet really is.
Overview
The argus monitor, Varanus panoptes, is a Least Concern reptile native to savanna and arid habitat across northern Australia and parts of New Guinea. Its bold crocodile-egg raiding, extensive burrowing behaviour, and status as one of Australia’s larger monitor lizards make it one of the more ecologically versatile reptiles found across the continent’s north.
A lizard unafraid of a crocodile’s nest
Few animals would risk digging into a crocodile’s nest, but the argus monitor does exactly that, using speed and opportunism to claim a meal that most other predators would avoid entirely.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread across suitable savanna and arid habitat throughout its range.
Argus Monitor: common questions
Does the argus monitor really eat crocodile eggs?
Yes, it is known to dig up and eat the eggs of crocodiles, a bold feeding behaviour that reflects the argus monitor's opportunistic and adaptable diet.
Why does the argus monitor dig such extensive burrows?
Its burrows, which can be deep and sometimes branching, provide shelter from extreme heat and a safe place to rest, an important adaptation for surviving in its hot, open habitat.
Why is it also called the yellow-spotted monitor?
It shows rows of pale yellow spots across a darker body, a pattern that gives the species its alternative common name.
Where is the argus monitor found?
It is native to savanna and arid habitat across northern Australia and parts of New Guinea.