WEB Storrs Monitor Lizard
Classification and Discovery
The WEB Storrs monitor lizard (Varanus storri) is a species of monitor lizard belonging to the family Varanidae. The species is endemic to Australia and was first described in 1980 by scientists. It is one of the largest monitor lizards in Australia, with males reaching an average length of 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) and females reaching an average length of 1.2 meters (3.9 feet).
Physical Characteristics
The WEB Storrs monitor lizard has a long, slender body with a thick, muscular tail. The head is triangular in shape with a blunt snout. The body is covered in small, granular scales, and the tail is covered in larger, keeled scales. The coloration of the WEB Storrs monitor lizard is variable, but it is typically a dark brown or black with a series of pale yellow or cream stripes running along the back. The tail is often banded with dark and light colors.
Habitat and Distribution
The WEB Storrs monitor lizard is found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, woodlands, and grasslands. It is also found in coastal areas and on islands. The species is distributed throughout much of northern and eastern Australia, from the Kimberley region in Western Australia to the Cape York Peninsula in Queensland. The WEB Storrs monitor lizard is also found on some of the islands in the Torres Strait.
Diet and Feeding Habits
The WEB Storrs monitor lizard is a carnivorous reptile that feeds on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. The lizard typically hunts by ambush, waiting for prey to come close before it strikes. The lizard then uses its powerful jaws to crush the prey's skull.
Reproduction and Lifespan
The WEB Storrs monitor lizard is a viviparous reptile, meaning that it gives birth to live young. The female lizard typically gives birth to between 10 and 20 young at a time. The young lizards are born with a full complement of teeth and are able to hunt for food on their own. The WEB Storrs monitor lizard has a lifespan of up to 20 years in the wild.
Conservation Status
The WEB Storrs monitor lizard is listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The species is threatened by habitat loss, fragmentation, and hunting. The lizard is also vulnerable to the introduction of invasive species, such as the cane toad.
Conclusion
The WEB Storrs monitor lizard is a fascinating and unique reptile that plays an important role in the Australian ecosystem. The lizard is a top predator that helps to control populations of small mammals and birds. The WEB Storrs monitor lizard is also a cultural icon for the indigenous people of Australia. The species is a symbol of strength and power, and it is often featured in Aboriginal art and stories.
Comments