Reptoria

Black tree monitor – Beccari (Varanus beccarii)

Black tree monitor – Beccari (Varanus beccarii), typical appearance of the species

Monitors & tegus · Difficulty: Expert

Key facts and care guidance for Black tree monitor – Beccari (Varanus beccarii) (origin: The Aru and Misool Islands (the New Guinea region)). Adult size around approx. 80–95 cm (usually 50–60 cm). Life expectancy approx. 10–15 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Black tree monitor – Beccari: How big does the enclosure need to be?

From 125×60×120 cm for one animal; for a pair from 145×60×120 cm (15 % more floor space per additional animal, as in the 1997 expert report).

Black tree monitor – Beccari: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 28–32 °C, basking spot 40–50 °C, at night 22–24 °C.

Black tree monitor – Beccari: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Recommended.

Black tree monitor – Beccari: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: approx. 10–15 years.

Black tree monitor – Beccari: Is it suitable for beginners?

No – better suited to experienced keepers (difficulty: Expert).

Climate

Daytime temperature
28–32 °C
Night temperature
22–24 °C
Basking spot
40–50 °C
Humidity
75–85 %
UVB
Recommended

Enclosure

Minimum size
from 125×60×120 cm for one animal; for a pair from 145×60×120 cm (15 % more floor space per additional animal, as in the 1997 expert report)
Substrate
Deep humus or coco substrate; branches, climbing walls, cork tubes

Feeding

Food
Insects (crickets, roaches), occasionally nestlings or eggs
Feeding interval
2–3× a week

Key facts

Adult size
approx. 80–95 cm (usually 50–60 cm)
Life expectancy
approx. 10–15 years
Origin
The Aru and Misool Islands (the New Guinea region)
Protection status
CITES Appendix II / EU Annex B, registration required; proof of legal origin
Brumation
None
Cohabitation
Singly or as a compatible pair. The reason: several males fight over territory and the warm spot until one is injured or spends its life in a corner. Females usually get on, but each needs its own warm spot and hide; feed them separately once they differ in size.

Notes

A shy, very active tree monitor of the prasinus group; it needs a tall, humid and densely structured terrarium. An expert's animal.

Do you keep this species?

Add your animal to Reptoria – Reptoria reminds you about feeding and shedding. Add your animal for free →

Black tree monitor – Beccari (Varanus beccarii) currently offered

See all listings in the marketplace →

Related species

All species in the care wiki →

What you need to start

To keep Black tree monitor – Beccari (Varanus beccarii) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (from 125×60×120 cm for one animal; for a pair from 145×60×120 cm (15 % more floor space per additional animal, as in the 1997 expert report)), substrate (Deep humus or coco substrate; branches, climbing walls, cork tubes), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.

Last updated: 30 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: monster-reptiles.com, reptile-care.de, warane.jimdofree.com, zootier-lexikon.org, einrichtungsbeispiele.de

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).