Nile Monitor

Varanus niloticus

Safety note: Bites and scratches — invasive, do not approach

The Nile Monitor is a large African lizard invasive in South Florida. It is highly intelligent, grows to 7 feet, and devastates ground-nesting bird and native turtle populations. Populations are established in several Florida counties.

Habitat

Introduced: canals, wetlands, and suburban areas in South Florida

Diet

Turtle eggs, bird eggs, small mammals, and invertebrates

How common

Uncommon

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