Mitchell's water monitor


Mitchell's water monitor is a semiaquatic species of monitor lizard in the family Varanidae. The species is native to Australia.

Etymology

The specific name, mitchelli, as well as the common name, Mitchell's water monitor, are in honor of Australian herpetologist Francis John Mitchell of the South Australian Museum.

Description

V. mitchelli reaches a total length of up to. It is generally dark in colour and has many small yellow spots or dark-centered ocelli.

Geographic range

Mitchell's water monitor is found in the north part of Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

Habitat

The preferred habitats of V. mitchelli are swamps, lagoons, inland rivers, and other bodies of water. It often is found on trees close to the water. It prefers to shelter in tree hollows and under bark. In the wild, V. mitchelli will make for water if it is disturbed.

Reproduction

V. mitchelli is oviparous.

In captivity

In captivity, Mitchell's water monitor is reported to be very nervous and shy. It is extremely uncommon in captivity.

Diet

Mitchell's water monitor preys on smaller animals of both terrestrial and aquatic origin. Its prey includes: smaller lizards, small mammals, nestling birds, reptile eggs and terrestrial invertebrates. Aquatic prey include: fish, crabs and frogs.