Assessment Summary
A Risk Assessment for the Lace monitor,Varanus varius has been conducted by the Department.
The risk assessment determined the Lace monitor as moderately dangerous to humans, having a high establishment risk, a moderate consequence of establishment and a moderate qualitative and quantitative consequence. It was therefore proposed the species be assigned to a serious threat category.
Following the initial risk assessment, the Department considers permitting the importation of reptiles assessed as ‘serious risk’ into the State as long as appropriate mitigation measures, enforced through a wildlife exhibition licence, can be identified and applied.
Mitigation options to reduce the risk associated with importing Lace monitor could include:
Limit importation to registered wildlife parks or zoos, to ensure that holding facilities meet the stringent keeping standards that apply to all such institutions in Tasmania;
Require any wildlife park or zoo to submit a Lace monitor Species Management Plan (including enclosure details) prior to import; and
Require wildlife exhibition facility licence holders and to clearly demonstrate that they have proficient keepers for the species.
Assessment Documentation
Lace Monitor (Varanus varius) (978Kb)