The Southern Pilbara Rock Monitor (Varanus hamersleyensis) is a small, agile rock-dwelling goanna from the Hamersley Range of Western Australia's Pilbara region. Compact and hardy, it is a crevice-dwelling species that scrambles among rock outcrops with impressive speed and confidence. Adults reach 40 to 50 cm and are a rewarding, active display species suited to keepers with the correct high-heat setup.
A wildlife keeper's licence is required in Queensland. See our Queensland Reptile Licence Guide.
Enclosure
The most important feature of a Pilbara Rock Monitor enclosure is securely constructed rockwork. Use heavy, stable rock arrangements that create genuine crevices, ledges, and hiding spots. All rockwork must be absolutely stable and cannot shift or fall: a collapsed rock structure can seriously injure or kill a monitor. An enclosure around 120 x 60 x 60 cm is appropriate for a single adult or pair. Include a substrate of coarse sand or gravel for digging, a water bowl, and a climbing surface.
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Heating
- Basking surface temperature: 50 to 60°C at the hot zone on the rock surface
- Warm ambient: 28 to 32°C
- Cool end: 25 to 28°C
- Night: allow to drop to 20 to 22°C
Direct basking lamps at the rock surface and measure with an infrared temperature gun. Connect all heat sources to a thermostat. Browse our heating and thermostat range.
UVB Lighting
Strong UVB is required. Use a T5 high-output UVB tube on a 10 to 12 hour cycle, replaced every 6 to 12 months. Browse our UVB lighting range.
Feeding
Primarily insectivorous. Offer a variety of gut-loaded live insects including crickets, woodies, roaches, and the occasional small prey item for adults.
- Juveniles: daily.
- Adults: every 2 to 3 days.
Dust insects with calcium at every feeding and use a reptile multivitamin periodically. Never feed by hand. Browse our live feeders.
Handling and Temperament
Active and alert, Pilbara Rock Monitors are quick and benefit from calm, consistent handling to become manageable. They are not as imposing as larger monitors but should be handled with care. Keep handling sessions calm and unhurried.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 40 to 50 cm |
| Lifespan | 15+ years |
| Enclosure (adult) | 120 x 60 x 60 cm |
| Basking surface | 50 to 60°C (measure with IR gun) |
| Warm ambient | 28 to 32°C |
| Cool end | 25 to 28°C |
| UVB | T5 high-output, 10 to 12 hrs/day |
| Rockwork | Must be completely stable and secure |
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Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Individual animals vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Always consult a qualified reptile vet for health concerns. A Queensland wildlife keeper's licence is required to purchase and keep Southern Pilbara Rock Monitors.
