Varanus+varius

 The Lace Monitor can grow to 2m long and is the second largest lizard in Australia, second to another monitor from the same genus //Varanus giganteus// (Wilson, S., Swan, G., 2009). The Lace Monitor is currently a secure and thriving species and steady populations of the lizards remain throughout the Eastern Australian coastline (Cronin, 2001) (Wilson, S., Swan, G., 2009). The lizards have become accustomed to various climate conditions and therefore live throughout tropical, moderate, wet, dry and almost arid environments throughout the eastern side of Australia.

 __Appearance__  The patterns of lace monitors skin/scales vary from very vibrant yellow and white distinctive lines and blotches that usually occur in their young, to patterns of yellow, white, light brown and black in older lizards. However although generally a blacker appearance in adult pattern is apparent it is not a definite distinction of the age of the animal, as some large yellow pattern can occur and not alter throughout their life period. The patterns can be blotches, stripes and flecks (Cronin, 2001).

 Distinctive large, strong talon style claws are on all four legs of this species. These provide easy defence mechanisms and allow goannas to climb trees, rip apart food ultimately survive in their environment (Green, B. & King, D., 1993).  The lizard’s tail length is almost two-thirds of the animal’s body length and acts as a balance and lengthening mechanism used to move and as well as to intimidate and manipulate prey. Long and slender, the tail has two ridges stretching right the way down.  __Breeding__  Spring and summer is this animal's breeding season, as it is their most active time of year where they can forage up to 3km a day. Mating involves a courtship fighting system to determine the fitter male however females can have multiple mates. Eggs are laid in clutches of up to 12 eggs in termite mounds or holes beneath trees and hatch between 6-8 weeks (Cogger,H., 1975).  __Behaviour__  Predatory behaviours are common as this large goanna ranks up there with the largest predators on the Australian landscape. Under threat though, this large lizard will curl its way up the trunk of a tree to escape danger and obstruct or confuse the vision of threats. Usually solitary creatures these animals come together during mating seasons, both to mate and prove themselves superior and worthy of a mate through combat by fighting off other goannas (Vincent M., Wilson S., 1999).  __Ecology__  Lace Monitors can tolerate a large variation in temperature and can survive in cold, wet or dry climates. They can respirate both with and without oxygen and are inactive during winter. Gorging on prey can often be the key to survival in the Australian summer when the roaming area is constricted and gorging on food is common when availability is high to prevent starvation. //Varanus// //varius// diet is mainly carrion, with added meat sources when available and are they are known to steal and eat eggs and birds. by 3068478