First Record of the Rough-necked Monitor Varanus rudicollis from Penang, Malaysia

In Malaysia, the known distribution of the rough-necked monitor Varanus rudicollis is poorly documented, with relatively few reliable localities scattered throughout Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia (Bennett & Liat, 1995). As far as it can be determined, there are no records of its occurrence on the island of Penang, Malaysia. On 29 April 2008, a single specimen of V. rudicollis was observed and photographed on the island of Penang, Malaysia (Figs. 1 & 2). The sub-adult lizard was seen during mid-afternoon at rest in a tree, approximately 10 m off the ground. The lizard remained at rest in the same position during the ten minutes under observation. Apart from a slight adjustment of its upper body position, the lizard was apparently unconcerned by our presence nearby. The canopy walkway from which the observation was made is located at the edge of a developed area bordered by dense forest, with mature trees and thick vegetation. The Penang Hill Canopy Walkway is located 1.7 km from the upper Penang Hill Railway Station, at an approximate elevation of 710 m above sea level at the summit of Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera), Malaysia (5° 25 46.38 N; 100° 16 3.68 E).