The Nile monitor (or Varanus niloticus) is a large species of reptile that lives in the non-desert area of Sub-Saharan Africa. They have also been introduced to the USA – specifically California and Florida – where they are regarded as an invasive species. Nile monitors much prefer environments close to water, tending to live near rivers. Both sexes look the same and are between 120 and 220cm long, with more than half of this length being their tail. Adults tend to be brown to green, with dark stripes on their body and yellow spots on their legs and head. Meanwhile, juveniles are black with bright yellow spots.
Latin Name
Varanus niloticus
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Animal Facts
Many female Nile monitors break into termite nests and lay their eggs inside them because the termites repair the damage afterwards and thus shelter the eggs.
When in danger or antagonised, the Nile monitor will attack with a powerful whip from its long tail.
Nile monitors are preyed upon by martial eagles, which can pick up and carry a lizard weighing up to 4kg.
Nile monitors are causing the crocodile and alligator population in Florida to decrease because they are so effective at robbing their nests of eggs and hatchlings.
Nile monitors never stop growing; they continue to get larger throughout their lives.