Varanus kingorum is a small-sized monitor species with a typical snout-vent length (excluding the tail) of 9-12cm in adults, making them the smallest of the rock monitor species.

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Their defining physical trait is the long, slender tail, which is typically twice the length of the snout-vent length. They have dark round spots or ocelli on their back, which can join into a net-like pattern across the back and thin out to broken stripes on the tail.

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The coloration of kingorum monitors is typically reddish brown to greyish brown. Patterning and coloration are stronger in adult males, while juveniles have strong patterns.

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Kingorum monitors are distributed in the East Kimberly region of Western Australia, spreading over the border to the northwest of the Northern Territory toward Timber Creek.

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They are terrestrial, rock-inhabiting species (Saxicolous) and are often found sheltering under rocks and tight crevices in rock piles in tropical savannah areas.

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While kingorum monitors were regarded as rarer species in the Australian hobby for a period, they have recently made a resurgence and have become readily available.

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In captivity, kingorum monitors tend to have a relaxed personality after a settling-in period. They become well habituated to human interaction and tong feeding. They may even run to the enclosure doors at feeding time. They are often overlooked as a great introductory monitor species but are quite active daily, exploring their environment, and do well in small groups.

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Here are the revised husbandry guidelines for Varanus kingorum:

Enclosure size: A minimum enclosure size of 80cm in length and 45cm in width is suitable for a pair or trio of kingorum monitors.

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Substrate and furnishings: Sand or large pebbles substrate is suitable for this species. Providing plenty of hides such as hollow logs and flat rocks stacked is important. The tighter the spaces, the more secure the animals will feel.

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Temperatures and lighting: Adequate UVB lighting is essential. A basking hot spot with a bright lamp directed onto a rock or tiles should have a temperature of around 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: Being from a tropical savannah environment, kingorum monitors benefit from a light misting daily or providing a humidity hide.

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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 necessary. Occasionally, you can include chopped pinkie mice, lean turkey or chicken mince, chopped chicken hearts, boiled chicken eggs, quail eggs, and chopped day-old quail. Maintaining a well-balanced variety is important.

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Life span: Kings are recorded as having a lifespan of greater than 8 years in captivity.