Range extension and new ecoregion records of the Crocodile Monitor Varanus salvadorii (Peters & Doria, 1878) (Reptilia: Varanidae) in Papua New Guinea

Abstract

The Crocodile Monitor Varanus salvadorii is one of the longest lizards and an apex predator in New Guinea. Limited information is available on its ecology and distribution, mainly due to its arboreal lifestyle and preference for inaccessible primary forest habitats. Here we provide the first published record, using camera trapping technology in the Torricelli Mountain Range, of V. salvadorii living at a higher elevation than previously recorded in montane rainforest habitat. This range extension implies the occupation of a distinctive ecoregion for the species: the Northern New Guinea Montane Forest, a substantially cooler region from the formerly known distribution area. We present trail camera images of an active animal at an elevation of 1,500 m & at 18oC temperature and we discuss the implications of this finding for understanding the behaviour & conservation of the Crocodile Monitor.