Varanus rosenbergi (Heath or Rosenberg's Monitor)

Common name: Rosenberg’s or Heath Monitor

Total length 1.5m

Rare/vulnerable in NSW

Rosenberg’s Monitor, also known as the Southern Heath Monitor, is one two monitors or goannas in the Canberra region. Rosenberg’s is a ground dwelling monitor while the Lace Monitor is often found in trees. Rosenberg’s is a lightish brown with orange bands, whereas the Lace Monitor is darker in colour, but also with bands, with a few very broad bands on the second half of its tail.

Rosenberg’s Monitor lays its eggs in termite mounds and any sightings at/near mounds might be an indication of breeding activity. If recording this monitor make note of nearby termite mounds if you think this is relevant.

For more information on monitors, please read the general note on Monitors & Geckos.

Distribution: In the Canberra region they are found in more open areas from north of Canberra to just south of Cooma.

Status: listed as Vulnerable in NSW, but not listed in ACT or in Commonwealth as a threatened species.

CNM would like more information on this species, be on the look out for it. Photos of tail are important to distinguish it from The Lace Monitor. Photos of head help to distinguish individuals in the species.

Varanus rosenbergi is listed in the following regions: