Varanus glauerti, also known as the Kimberley Rock Monitor or the Pygmy Mulga Monitor, is a medium-sized monitor species. Adults typically have a snout-vent length (excluding the tail) ranging from 15 to 25cm.

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The defining traits of this species are its thin body and head, as well as its slender and long tail. One of the most striking features is the strongly contrasting striped tail with black and stripes along its length.

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The coloration of Varanus glauerti can vary based on the original locality of the animals. The overall body banding strength and coloration can range from reddish-brown to darker brown, with light grey to olive-coloured spots. They often have yellow coloration on the lower neck.

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The distribution of Varanus glauerti is primarily in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, extending over the border to the northwest Northern Territory. There is also an isolated population in Arnhem Land. There are proposed subspecies or species within this range. Kimberley Rock Monitors are rock-inhabiting species (saxicolous) commonly found in areas of gorges and rock escarpments. They make their homes in deep rock crevices.

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Varanus glauerti is still considered a rarer species in the Australian reptile-keeping hobby and is highly sought after. Keeping this species can be very rewarding as they are extremely curious and active animals, utilizing their entire enclosure.

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Once settled in, Kimberley Rock Monitors become well habituated to human interaction and presence. Tong and hand feeding can be easily established as they mature. They are often among the favorite monitors kept by enthusiasts due to their engaging behaviour.

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Husbandry for Varanus glauerti is not particularly difficult, but successful breeding may present challenges.

To provide ample space for this species, it is best to have both vertical and horizontal dimensions in the enclosure. For indoor housing, a minimum size of 120cm in length, 100cm in width, and 100cm in height is recommended for a pair on the smaller side.

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Substrate and furnishings: Sand or large pebbles make suitable substrates. Provide plenty of hides such as hollow logs and stacked flat rocks or tiles. Vertical climbing options, such as upright rocks or fake rock backgrounds, should be provided. The more secure and tight the spaces, the safer the animal will feel and the less stressed it will be.

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Temperatures and lighting: Adequate UVB lighting is essential. A basking hot spot under a bright lamp directed onto a rock or tiled surface should reach temperatures of around 50-65°C. The ambient heat gradient over the rest of the enclosure should range from 28-33°C during the warmer active months.

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Humidity: Although Varanus glauerti is considered semi-arid, they benefit greatly from regular misting to maintain humidity. Providing a damp humidity hide is also recommended.

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Feeding: The bulk of their diet should consist of crickets, wood roaches, and other insects. Regular dusting of calcium powder and vitamins is important. Occasional additions to their diet can include chopped pinkie mice, chopped mice, lean turkey or chicken mince, chopped chicken hearts, boiled chicken eggs, quail eggs, and chopped day-old quail. Offering a well-balanced variety of food is ideal.

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Life span: Varanus glauerti is typically recorded to have a lifespan of greater than 10 years in captivity.