Reptoria

Pilbara rock monitor (Varanus pilbarensis)

Monitors & tegus · Difficulty: Intermediate

Key facts and care guidance for Pilbara rock monitor (Varanus pilbarensis) (origin: The Pilbara region, Western Australia (rocky outcrops and gorges)). Adult size around approx. 45–50 cm total length (about two thirds tail). Life expectancy approx. 12–15 years, sometimes over 18. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Pilbara rock monitor: How big does the enclosure need to be?

At least 180×90×90 cm, a rock structure with crevices; floor area matters more than height.

Pilbara rock monitor: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 28–33 °C, basking spot 50–60 °C (hot basking spot on rock), at night 20–24 °C.

Pilbara rock monitor: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: UVB needed (Ferguson zone 3–4, UV index 4–6).

Pilbara rock monitor: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: approx. 12–15 years, sometimes over 18.

Pilbara rock monitor: Is it suitable for beginners?

Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).

Climate

Daytime temperature
28–33 °C
Night temperature
20–24 °C
Basking spot
50–60 °C (hot basking spot on rock)
Humidity
40–60 %
UVB
UVB needed (Ferguson zone 3–4, UV index 4–6)

Enclosure

Minimum size
at least 180×90×90 cm, a rock structure with crevices; floor area matters more than height
Substrate
Sand-loam, stacked flat stones and rock crevices, hollow logs

Feeding

Food
Insects (crickets, roaches), occasionally small vertebrates or eggs; calcium and vitamins
Feeding interval
adults 2–3×/week, juveniles daily

Key facts

Adult size
approx. 45–50 cm total length (about two thirds tail)
Life expectancy
approx. 12–15 years, sometimes over 18
Origin
The Pilbara region, Western Australia (rocky outcrops and gorges)
Protection status
CITES Appendix II / EU Annex B → registration required, proof of origin required
Brumation
a slight winter drop to stimulate breeding; no true brumation
Cohabitation
Keep them singly; the males are territorial and do not get on. A pair only with plenty of space, plenty of crevice hides and supervision.

Notes

An active, climbing rock monitor; a hot basking spot and rock crevices are essential. Closely related to the recently split V. hamersleyensis. A common mistake: too cool a basking spot and too little structure.

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Related species

All species in the care wiki →

What you need to start

To keep Pilbara rock monitor (Varanus pilbarensis) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (at least 180×90×90 cm, a rock structure with crevices; floor area matters more than height), substrate (Sand-loam, stacked flat stones and rock crevices, hollow logs), 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: 25 September 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilbara-Felsenwaran, https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Varanus&species=pilbarensis

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).