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Scientists describe newly discovered species of monitors still today. The blue tree monitor, for example, was only just discovered in 2001 on the small Indonesian island of Batanta. Very little is known about its natural history.

blue tree monitor on log

Did You Know?

Sensing Signals: Like their snake relatives, monitors “taste” the air with their forked tongues to locate prey.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Varanus macraei

Range:
Batanta Island (Indonesia)

Habitat:
Tropical forest

Length:
Up to 3.6 ft

Lifespan:
More than 10 years

Diet:
Small animals, such as insects and frogs, and eggs