Sometimes known as Salvadori’s monitor or Papuan monitor, this species fascinates both herpetologists and aficionados for reptiles.

Physical traits
Though their normal length is between 7 and 9 feet, crocodile monitors are among the longest lizards in the world; some individuals reach lengths of up to 13 feet. Their very long tails—which can be more than twice the length of their bodies—account for a good amount of this length. Their blackish-green hue varies according on the locale; it is accentuated with vivid yellow dots and stripes. Their sharp, serrated teeth—which match those of crocodiles—help to explain their shared name.

Distribution and Habitat
Found only in lowland rainforests and coastal mangrove swamps of both Papua New Guinea and the Indonesian territory of West Papua, crocodile monitors are endemic to New Guinea. Spending much of their time in the forest canopy, which offers both protection and hunting areas, they are quite arboreal.

Diet and Hunting Techniques
Crocodile monitors have a varied diet including small mammals, birds, eggs, carrion, and fish as carnivores and scavengers. Their sharp, serrated teeth fit quite nicely for catching and eating prey. Excellent swimmers and climbers, they can hunt both in water and forests.

Reproduction
There is not much knowledge about the wild reproduction of crocodile monitors. Females seen in captivity have laid clusters of four to twelve eggs between October and January. Many of these clutches, moreover, are sterile and successful breeding in captivity is somewhat rare. Hatchlings weigh roughly 56 grams and run about 18 inches in length.

Conservation Status
The crocodile monitor is under Appendix II of the Convention on International commerce in Endangered Species (CITES), which controls commerce to stop exploitation. Although not listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, hunting pressure and habitat deterioration resulting from deforestation are difficulties for the species. Crocodile monitors are hunted for their skins, which are used to manufacture drums in some traditional societies.

Crocodile Observers in Captivity
Sometimes kept in captivity, both in zoos and by private reptile aficionados, crocodile monitors are appropriate only for experienced handlers, nevertheless, because of their reputation for aggressiveness and unpredictability. Their big scale and particular environmental requirements call for roomy enclosures that reflect their natural habitat, including lots of vertical area for climbing.

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Common Questions Answered

• Crocodile monitors have what length of life?
  With good care, crocodile monitors kept in captivity can survive up to 20 years. Though less known, their wild lifetime is thought to be similar.
• Are people at risk when viewing crocodiles?
  Although crocodile monitors usually avoid human interaction, if threatened their sharp fangs and strong tails can cause major harm.
• Which main hazard exists to crocodile monitors?
  The primary dangers are habitat loss brought on by local people hunting for skins and deforestation.
• Pets can include crocodile monitors.
  Their size, specific care needs, and possible aggressiveness make them not advised for novice reptile owners.
• Comparatively to Komodo dragons, what distinguishes crocodile monitors?
  Although both are big monitor lizards, crocodile monitors are usually less enormous but longer than Komodo dragons. They also vary in color and lead more arboreal lives.

In conclusion
A monument to the great diversity of New Guinea is the crocodile monitor. Its amazing scale, special adaptations, and enigmatic character captivate people and highlight the need of conservation to guarantee its ongoing existence.