The Activity Pattern, Temperature Regulation and Diet of Varanus-Giganteus on Barrow-Island, Western-Australia

Abstract

The daily activity pattern of the perentie Varanus giganteus on Barrow Island, was bimodal in summer with activity concentrated during the morning and late afternoon. Animais were active on most days in summer. Mean activity temperatures were approximately 36°C, which is similar to those of other varanid species. The heating rate for one animal was 0.09°C min-1. The activity areas of animals ranged in size from 2.9-21.5 ha. The diet consisted mainly of turtle eggs or hatchlings and other vertebrates. Mating and egg-laying appear to take place in the spring.