Ackie Monitor Setup

Common Name: Ackie Monitor / Spiny-Tailed Monitor
Scientific Name: Varanus acanthurus
Source: CB (Captive Bred)
Adult Size: 60–75cm (including tail, with males typically larger than females)
Native Range: Northern and central Australia, inhabiting rocky outcrops, dry grasslands, and semi-arid scrublands.

Enclosure: A minimum 180×60×60cm Viperia PVC viv is recommended for a single adult, although larger enclosures are strongly recommended for these highly active lizards. Provide at least 30cm of deep, compactable substrate, such as a sand and topsoil mix, to allow natural digging and burrowing. Include sturdy rocks, cork bark, climbing branches, secure hides, and plenty of enrichment to encourage natural exploration, basking, and hunting behaviours.

Heating: Basking surface temperature of 50–60°C, with a warm-side ambient temperature of 30–35°C and a cool side of 24–28°C. A night-time temperature drop to approximately 20–24°C is generally acceptable. High-output basking lamps should be used to create a broad, evenly heated basking area, with all heating equipment appropriately secured and thermostatically controlled where suitable.

Humidity: Approximately 40–60% ambient humidity, with higher moisture levels maintained within the deeper substrate and burrows. Although ackie monitors originate from relatively dry environments, access to humid underground retreats is essential for hydration and healthy shedding. Provide a deep substrate that retains moisture below the surface while remaining relatively dry on top, alongside a fresh water bowl.

UVB: A high-output 10–12% UVB tube, such as a suitable T5 HO system, positioned over the basking area to provide appropriate UV exposure. As active, diurnal reptiles, ackie monitors benefit from strong UVB lighting to support vitamin D3 synthesis, calcium metabolism, and natural behaviours. The correct basking distance should be determined by the lamp's output, reflector, mesh obstruction, and manufacturer guidance, with shaded areas and hides available throughout the enclosure.

Diet: A varied diet consisting primarily of appropriately sized live insects, including crickets, locusts, dubia roaches, and occasional mealworms or other invertebrates. Juveniles typically require feeding daily or near-daily, while adults can generally be fed 3–5 times per week, depending on body condition and activity levels. Insects should be appropriately gut-loaded and supplemented with calcium and vitamins. Occasional whole-prey items may be offered sparingly, but fatty foods and excessive rodent feeding should be avoided, as ackie monitors can be prone to obesity in captivity.