Peacock Monitor (Varanus aufenbergi)

Common Name: Peacock Monitor 
Scientific Name: Varanus auffenbergi
Sex: Unsexed
Source: CB

Adult Size: 50- 70 cm total length 
Native Range: Rote (Roti) Island, Indonesia

Enclosure: Tall, secure, well-ventilated viv with climbing and dense cover
Heating: Basking spot 40–45 °C; ambient warm side around the high-20s °C; night drop around mid-20s °C

Humidity: 60–90% reported; balance regular misting with strong ventilation to avoid stagnant air

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

Diet: Primarily insect-based with occasional appropriately sized whole-prey items; feed babies daily & adults 3 times a week.

Water: Fresh water available at all times; offer regular misting/drinking opportunities and a bowl large enough for soaking if used

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

The peacock monitor is a small Odatria monitor endemic to Indonesia’s Rote (Roti) Island, which is part of what makes it so sought-after in collections.

It’s named for the eye-like “ocelli” spotting that can show strongly in younger animals, with pattern contrast often shifting as it matures.

Compared with the big, bold water monitors, this is a slimmer, quicker lizard that tends to value cover expect lots of movement between cork, plants and elevated perches once it feels secure.

A good setup leans vertical: multiple tight hides, textured climbing routes, and clear basking access while still giving shaded retreats. Like other monitors, it benefits from strong heat at the basking point and careful humidity management paired with airflow.