Yellow-headed Water Monitor (Varanus cummingi)

Common Name: Yellow-headed Water Monitor
Scientific Name: Varanus cumingi
Sex: Unsexed
Source: CB

Adult Size: Up to 150cm total length
Native Range: Southern Philippines

Enclosure: Large, secure custom enclosure strongly recommended
Heating: Basking spot 45 °C; ambient warm side 28 °C with a cooler area 24 °C; night drop 20-22 °C

Humidity: 60–80% with strong ventilation; large water area helps maintain humidity without stale air

UVB: Recommended (provide a clear basking zone plus shaded retreats)

Diet: Varied carnivore - whole-prey items plus fish and invertebrates; feed babies more invertebrate prey, feed daily & adults feed 3 times a week with more protein based foods

Water: Large, clean pool for swimming/soaking at all times; robust filtration or frequent changes

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Varanus cumingi is a large, semi-aquatic Philippine monitor best known for its bold yellow head and neck markings, especially in well-established adults. In the wild it’s closely tied to waterways, mangroves, coastal edges, forest margins and man-made fishpond areas, so captive setups work best when they offer both land space and real water depth rather than a token bowl. 

They’re powerful climbers too, and will use sturdy branches and elevated platforms if provided.

This is an active, intelligent monitor that benefits from a spacious enclosure layout with multiple visual barriers, dry basking options, and a clean swimming zone. Colours and contrast can shift noticeably with growth and sheds, so juveniles often look different to mature animals.