Reptile · Monitor
Black-headed monitor care guide
Varanus tristis
The black-headed monitor is a intermediate-level monitor from Western and northern Australia. Adults reach 60–75 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Semi-arboreal dwarf monitor; give height and stacked bark.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 120 cm
- Temp Basking 50–55°C, cool 26°C
- Humidity 30–50%
How much does a black-headed monitor cost in Canada?
Black-headed monitor quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 60–75 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Western and northern Australia
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 120 cm (47 × 24 × 47 in, ≈ 228 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 50–55°C, cool 26°C
- Humidity
- 30–50%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Insectivore – roaches, crickets, occasional egg
- Bioactive style
- Semi-arid
Black-headed monitor enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 120 cm (47 × 24 × 47 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-arid bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Semi-Arid Blend12 cm
- Base layer – packed coco fibre8 cm
No drainage layer – water deeply but rarely so the bottom stays slightly moist while the surface stays dry. This species digs, so give it 20 cm (8 in) of substrate in total. Only the top 12 cm needs to be bioactive soil; the 8 cm underneath can be cheaper coco fibre, dampened and packed firm.
Temperature: Basking 50–55°C, cool 26°C. Humidity: 30–50%. UVB: Required.
What does a black-headed monitor eat?
Insectivore – roaches, crickets, occasional egg. Juveniles daily, adults 4–5 times a week.
Handling, temperament & health
Fast and nervous; display animal.
Health watch: Obesity and burns from improper basking.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking surface temperature with an infrared thermometer.
- Keep the humid hide damp; refresh water.
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
- Every 1–2 weeks, pour water down into the soil around plants and in the cool corner.
Monthly
- Check stones and wood are stable and can’t be tunnelled under.
- Add a few leaves to the cool corner for isopods.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer in the basking area.
- Replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a black-headed monitor bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 120 cm).
Jurassic ABG Semi-Arid Blend
Bioactive top layer, 12 cm
Canyon Sand
Optional: mix in for a firmer, sandier texture
Premium Coconut Fiber
Base layer, 8 cm – dampen and pack firm so burrows hold
Eastern Oak Leaves 10/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Terrarium Moss 7L Bag
Humid hide moss
Cork Bark Half Rounds
A hide at each end – plus one humid hide filled with damp moss
Mopani Wood
Climbing and a raised basking spot
Carnelian Stone
Holds heat under the lamp – place directly on the enclosure floor
Black-headed monitor FAQ
Is the black-headed monitor good for beginners?
The black-headed monitor is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Fast and nervous; display animal.
What size enclosure does a black-headed monitor need?
At least 120 × 60 × 120 cm (about 47 × 24 × 47 inches, roughly 228 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a black-headed monitor cost in Canada?
Typically $1000–2500 CAD to buy, about $1360–2450 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $500–800 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a black-headed monitor need?
Temperature: Basking 50–55°C, cool 26°C. Humidity: 30–50%.
What does a black-headed monitor eat?
Insectivore – roaches, crickets, occasional egg. Juveniles daily, adults 4–5 times a week.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.