Meet Sven: Rockhampton Zoo’s newest resident reptile

Published on 04 August 2026

Rockhampton Zoo’s perentie enclosure has officially reopened this week, featuring a young, new resident – Sven.

Sven has recently completed his quarantine period after arriving from Australia Zoo and now calls the revamped enclosure home.

Chair for Parks, Sport and Public Spaces, Councillor Cherie Rutherford, said at just eleven months old, Sven offers visitors a unique opportunity to watch his growth and development.

“Sven’s arrival is an exciting addition for the zoo and we can’t wait for the community to come and meet him,” Cr Rutherford said.

“Perenties are remarkable native animals, and having Sven here gives visitors a rare chance to witness the early life stages of Australia’s largest monitor lizard.

“What’s really special is that visitors will be able to return over the months and years ahead and see just how much he changes.”

Currently measuring approximately 90 centimetres, Sven is expected to grow rapidly in the coming months.

“Perenties can grow up to 2.5 metres long and weigh as much as 20 kilograms, so Sven is only just getting started,” Cr Rutherford said.

Rockhampton Zoo Curator, Blair Chapman, said Sven is already showing confidence in his new surroundings.

“Sven is doing really well - he’s actively exploring his enclosure and can often be seen in the viewing areas,” Mr Chapman said.

“His habitat has been designed to support natural behaviours with ponds, plants, rock piles and log structures for climbing and enrichment.

“There are also heated rocks to help him regulate his body temperature, particularly during the cooler weather.”

Sven also has nearby company, with additional lizard species now in an adjoining habitat.

“As Sven is still young and doesn’t require the full space of the enclosure, we’ve created a dedicated adjoining habitat for other lizard species,” Mr Chapman said.

“Our frill-necked lizards and blotched blue-tongue lizards have moved into this new space, with plans to introduce additional species in the future.

“This will give visitors the opportunity to see a variety of lizards and monitor species side by side, showcasing the diversity of these fascinating reptiles.”

The lizard enclosures can be found in the Australian wildlife precinct, past the saltwater crocodile enclosure.

Rockhampton Zoo is open 9am – 4.15pm daily, and entry is free.