Reptile · GBIF taxon 2470656
Nile Monitor
Varanus niloticusAlso known as Water Leguaan, River Leguaan, African Small-Grain Lizard
Nile monitors are formidable, highly adaptable reptiles that rule the waterways of Sub-Saharan Africa with their powerful limbs, sharp claws, and muscular tails. These excellent swimmers can remain submerged for up to an hour, hunting for prey along riverbanks or basking on low-hanging branches. Escaped pets have also established thriving invasive populations in Florida, where they pose a significant threat to local wildlife.
SemiaquaticCarnivorousDiurnal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Crabs
- Crocodile eggs
- Small rodents
Predators
- Nile Crocodiles
- Leopards
- Large birds of prey
ThreatsHabitat destruction, hunting for the leather trade, and persecution as pests
HabitatsRivers, swamps, lakes, estuaries, and adjacent woodlands or savannahs
Life span10 to 15 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyVaranidae
- SpeciesVaranus niloticus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- Possesses sharp claws, powerful jaws, and a whip-like tail; maintain a safe distance and do not corner.
Responsible observation
- Observe from afar: Use binoculars to watch them basking on riverbanks, as they flee quickly when approached.
- Watch the tail: Be aware that a cornered monitor will hiss loudly and lash its powerful tail defensively.
- Report sightings: Document any encounters in non-native areas like Florida to local wildlife conservation authorities.
Competitor Dewet / CC BY-SA 2.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative 
Close Relative Carlos Delgado / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-saClose Relative
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?
Checking your Fauna account…Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.