Gould’s sand monitor
Varanus gouldii
Have you been lucky enough to spot one of these goannas running – or sunning – around the Park?
These goannas are incredibly fast – an adaption that helps them to cover large, open plains of land fast enough to catch their equally fast prey for a meal. If you spook them, you’ll see just how quick they can be!
The Gould’s monitor is also known as the sand goanna and racehorse goanna, and juveniles can be sighted in and around the Children’s Forest on occasion.
Despite their impressive size, growing up to 1.6m in length, they are fine fellows, with a dainty, pointed face and strong spotted markings. They can be readily distinguished from other species by their yellow-tipped tails.
| Family | Varanidae |
| Scientific name | Varanus gouldii |
| Noongar name | kaarda |
| Common name | Gould’s monitor, sand monitor, sand goanna, racehorse goanna |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Habitat | open woodlands and grasslands |
