Professional, Humane Management of Large Goannas Across Greater Sydney

Call: 0418 633 474

The lace monitor (Varanus varius) — often called a tree goanna — is the largest lizard commonly encountered in Sydney. Powerful, intelligent and highly adaptable, lace monitors are increasingly found in suburban areas, particularly where food, shelter and warmth are readily available.

While they are not aggressive animals, their size, strength and defensive behaviour mean they should be treated with respect. Most lace monitor call-outs relate to dogs, repeated visits, roof access, or peace of mind, rather than immediate danger.

Sydney Lizard Removal provides professional, lawful lace monitor removal and management throughout Greater Sydney.

Call: 0418 633 474

Why Lace Monitors Appear Around Homes

Lace monitors are opportunistic feeders and strong climbers. They are commonly attracted to residential areas by:

• Pet food left outdoors

• Rubbish bins and compost

• Poultry enclosures and aviaries

• Other wildlife such as rodents or birds

• Roof spaces, sheds and trees offering shelter

Once a lace monitor finds a reliable food source, it may return repeatedly.

Are Lace Monitors Dangerous?

Lace monitors are not aggressive toward people and do not attack unprovoked. Problems usually arise when:

• A dog chases or corners the lizard

• The animal is trapped or unable to escape

• Someone attempts to handle it

When threatened, a lace monitor may hiss, lash its tail, scratch or bite in self-defence. Injuries most often involve pets, not people.

For this reason, large goannas should never be handled by untrained individuals.

Common Lace Monitor Call-Outs

We regularly attend lace monitor jobs involving:

• Goannas in backyards refusing to move on

• Animals accessing roof spaces or sheds

• Repeated visits due to food availability

• Dogs being injured or at risk

• Monitors stuck in awkward or unsafe locations

In many cases, the issue is not the animal itself, but what is attracting it.

Is Lace Monitor Removal Legal in NSW?

Lace monitors are protected native animals in New South Wales.

This means:

• They cannot be harmed or killed

• They cannot be relocated indiscriminately

• Handling requires the appropriate licence

• Relocation must comply with wildlife regulations

In some situations, relocation is appropriate. In others, deterrence and habitat modification are the correct solution.
We assess each job individually and act strictly within the law.

Our Approach to Lace Monitor Management

Assessment

We identify why the monitor is present and whether removal is necessary or appropriate.

Safe Handling

If intervention is required, the animal is handled using techniques designed to minimise stress and prevent injury.

Lawful Outcome

Relocation, exclusion or advice is provided in accordance with NSW wildlife regulations.

Practical Advice

We explain how to reduce attractants and discourage repeat visits.

No gimmicks. No unnecessary removals. Just practical wildlife management.

What to Do If You See a Lace Monitor

• Keep dogs indoors or restrained

• Do not attempt to approach or handle the animal

• Remove obvious food attractants if safe to do so

• Allow clear escape routes where possible

If the monitor is trapped, injured, accessing buildings, or returning repeatedly, professional assistance may be appropriate.

Lace Monitor Removal Across Greater Sydney

We provide lace monitor services across:

• Residential properties

• Acreage and semi-rural blocks

• Strata and managed properties

• Schools and public facilities

• Construction and development sites

Our focus is always on safe, calm and lawful outcomes.

Contact Urban Lizard Removal — Lace Monitor Specialists

If you’re dealing with a lace monitor on your property and want experienced, sensible advice, contact Sydney Lizard Removal.

Call: 0418 633 474

We’ll tell you honestly whether removal is needed — and if not, what will actually solve the problem.