Yellow-spotted Monitor

(Varanus panoptes panoptes)

I spotted this huge Yellow-spotted Monitor hunting for food amongst the deep cracks of a parched landscape in Kakadu National Park (Northern Territory, Australia). This species is known for “tripoding”, standing up on its hind legs and using its tail for balance. They may use this technique to get a better look around, or to initiate ritualistic fights between males. Each will stand up and grab their opponent around the chest, attempting to force the other to the ground.