Ackie monitor
Also known as Spiny-tailed monitor, Ridge-tailed monitor, Varanus acanthurus
- Adult size
- 60–70 cm long including tail
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Origin
- Northern and western Australia
- Company
- Usually kept alone or as a carefully monitored pair; seek experienced advice
- Active
- Intelligent
- Bold
- Burrowing
About the Ackie monitor
The Ackie monitor is one of the smaller monitor lizards, but it is still an active, intelligent predator that needs plenty of space to dig and explore. It comes from rocky, arid areas of northern and western Australia and is kept entirely from captive-bred stock outside Australia.
Information about long-term care is less complete than for many common pet lizards, and keepers' recommendations have changed over time. Treat this as general guidance and seek advice from an experienced keeper or exotics vet.
Temperament
Ackies are bold, inquisitive and constantly busy, and many become comfortable around people. They can be quick and may scratch or nip, especially at feeding time. They tend to see food in moving fingers.
Enclosure, heat & light
Despite their modest size they need a large enclosure, commonly at least 120 x 60 x 60 cm and preferably much larger, with deep, diggable substrate that holds burrows. A very hot basking spot and a cooler retreat area are needed, controlled by a thermostat and checked with thermometers, along with UVB. Rocks should be secured so they cannot collapse on a digging lizard.
Diet
They eat a variety of gut-loaded, calcium-dusted insects, with occasional other whole prey for adults. Overfeeding fatty foods causes obesity. Follow vet or experienced keeper advice for amounts and supplementation.
Enrichment & handling
Deep digging substrate, varied climbing and scatter-fed insects keep them busy. Handle calmly and keep hands clear of food smells.
Shedding & hygiene
They shed in pieces and good humidity in the burrows helps. Clean daily and wash hands after contact.
Health
Possible problems include metabolic bone disease, obesity, retained shed and impaction. Find an exotics vet familiar with monitor lizards before buying.
Prone to
- Metabolic bone disease
- Obesity
- Retained shed
- Impaction
Call a vet if you notice
- Weakness or swollen limbs
- Loss of appetite with weight loss
- Mucus or open-mouth breathing
- Collapse or inability to moveEmergency
A vet with experience of exotic pets is best placed to help. Find one before you need them.
Common questions
Are Ackie monitors good for beginners?
They are often called a manageable monitor, but they still need a large enclosure, deep substrate and intense heat. They suit keepers with some reptile experience.
How big do Ackie monitors get?
Adults are commonly around 60–70 cm including the tail. They are small for a monitor but large compared with most pet geckos.
Do Ackie monitors need deep substrate?
Yes. Burrowing is an important natural behaviour, and a deep, compacted substrate that holds tunnels is widely recommended.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.