Thailand's Water Monitor Lizard

Monitor lizards are large reptiles that inhabit tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa and Australia. They are carnivorous and opportunistic predators, feeding on a variety of prey such as insects, rodents, birds, eggs, fish and carrion. One of the most common species of monitor lizard in Thailand is the water monitor (Varanus Salvator), which can grow up to 3 meters in length and weigh up to 50 kilograms. Water monitors are semi-aquatic and can be found in wetlands, rivers, lakes and swamps. They have powerful jaws, sharp claws and long tails that help them swim and balance. Water monitors are generally shy and avoid humans, but they can be aggressive if threatened or provoked.