Varanus panoptes is a large-sized monitor species with a typical snout-vent length (excluding the tail) ranging from around 60-80cm in adults.

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Their coloration and pattern vary between different localities of Panoptes monitors. Typically, they exhibit light yellows to dark browns with variations of dark patterning and lighter spots on the body. They also have light-colored banding across the tail, a narrow dark strip running from the back of the eye to the back of the head, and a pale throat and underbody.

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Panoptes monitors have a wide distribution across Australia, covering most of Queensland (QLD), the upper third of the Northern Territory (NT), and a separate population in mid Western Australia (WA) as a subspecies. They are primarily terrestrial and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, tropical savannah, woodlands, and floodplains.

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They are common in captivity, but availability may be limited due to their large adult size. Once settled in, they become well habituated to human interaction and presence. Tong feeding can be easily established as they mature, but it's important to note that, like most large monitors, they can exhibit strong feeding reactions.

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Husbandry for Panoptes monitors is relatively easy as they are an arid species with a wide natural range. However, they are active monitors and are better suited for outdoor enclosures, at least during the warmer months, although they can be kept indoors with adequate space.

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Enclosure size: Vertical space is not a requirement as they are highly terrestrial. Large pits or enclosures can be used indoors or outdoors, considering the heating requirements. Enclosures for adults should be around 3m x 2m, but larger enclosures are preferable.

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Substrate and furnishings: Sand substrate is suitable for this species, and providing plenty of hollows and hides is recommended. They enjoy burrowing, so if a deep substrate is provided, they will utilize it.

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Temperatures and lighting: Adequate UVB lighting is essential for internal keeping. A basking hot spot with a bright lamp directed onto a rock or tiles should be provided, with temperatures ideally ranging from 50-65°C. The ambient heat gradient over the rest of the enclosure should be around 28-33°C during the warmer active months.

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Humidity: While they come from an arid environment, they can benefit from a light misting every few days and providing a humidity hide if kept in an internal enclosure.

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Feeding: The bulk of their diet should consist of crickets, wood roaches, and other insects, with regular dusting of calcium powder and vitamins for young animals. Adults will consume whole prey such as rats, mice, quail, and other meats. It's important to maintain a well-balanced variety of food, considering the fat content.

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Life span: Captive Varanus panoptes have an average recorded lifespan of 10-15 years in captivity, but longer lifespans have certainly been recorded.