Green Tree Monitor

Description and Lifestyle

This slender lizard is distinguished by its rough scales and long tail which may be twice its own body size. These anatomical features help the animal inhabit arboreal (tree) habitats. Because they are adapted to climbing, researchers have not been able to gather enough data to obtain population numbers.

Pet Trade Victims

This species of monitor has fallen victim to the pet trade. Since they may be found on the forest floor searching for food, they are easy targets for pet trade hunters. Even though they are listed under CITES (a multilateral treaty to protect endangered plants and animals) they are not protected in the country of Indonesia.