Nile Moniter

The Nile monitor is the largest species of lizard in Africa, with individuals reaching lengths of 220cm (7.3ft). Like all monitor lizards, it has a long, powerful tail and well-developed legs with sharp claws used for digging, climbing or defense. It has a distinctive patterning on its skin which consists of barring and rosette-like spots, which vary considerably between individuals.

The Nile monitor lives in a variety of non-desert habitats across sub-Saharan Africa, as well as the Nile river, but is largely adapted for an aquatic lifestyle and is usually found close to water. Like all monitors, it is a carnivore, seeking out prey with its forked tongue. Prey includes small mammals, other lizards, fish, eggs and even poisonous toads. Although native to Africa, the Nile monitor has also established a population in Florida, USA, where it is considered an invasive species.