Learn more about the spiny-tailed monitor!

Did you know that this animal uses its tail to wedge itself into tight crevices?

The spiny-tailed monitor, also known as the ridge-tailed monitor or spiny-tailed goanna, exists in a number of sizes and colors throughout northwestern Australia.

The spikes ring the tail, directed backward from the body, making it difficult to pull the monitor from a rocky crevice where it may be hiding. The tail is also useful in hunting, as the lizard can whip it around as a large, spiky club to attack prey.

This species can be highly variable in color and pattern. Here at the National Aquarium, visitors can see the red phase spiny-tailed monitor, noted by its distinct brick-red color accented with dark and cream ringed spots.