Orange back Jayapura Blue Tail Monitor (Varanus doreanus)

Common Name: Blue‑tailed Monitor
Scientific Name: Varanus doreanus
Source: CBID

Adult Size: Up to 135cm total length (varies with locality and age) 
Native Range: New Guinea, Bismarck Archipelago, Waigeo, Salawati and northern Queensland, Australia

Enclosure: Large semi‑arboreal/terrestrial enclosure; substantial length & height with climbing branches and hide spaces 
Heating: Basking area 40–45 °C; ambient 26–32 °C; night drop ~22–26 °C

Humidity: 60–80 % with regular misting and good ventilation

UVB: Moderate UVB lighting 

Diet: Carnivorous; insects, crustaceans and poultry

Water: Large water source soaking and drinking

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

The blue‑tailed monitor (Varanus doreanus) is a medium‑to‑large monitor lizard from New Guinea and nearby islands, named for its striking light blue tail which is most vivid in juveniles and may fade somewhat with age. Adults can reach well over a metre in total length and show a greyish to bluish body with round ocelli and a distinctive double‑keeled tail. This species occupies a range of habitats from riverbanks and open forests to riparian zones, where it forages for vertebrate and invertebrate prey.

Blue‑tailed monitors are diurnal and semi‑arboreal tendencies, making use of both ground cover and low branches. Their energetic nature, robust build and bold colouring make them a compelling species for experienced monitor keepers willing to provide a large, complex enclosure with ample heat, humidity and water features.