Clouded monitor
A species of Monitor lizards Scientific name : Varanus nebulosus Genus : Monitor lizards
Clouded monitor, A species of Monitor lizards
Scientific name: Varanus nebulosus
Genus: Monitor lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
The clouded monitor (Varanus nebulosus) is a species of monitor lizard, native to Burma, Thailand and Indochina to West Malaysia, Singapore, Java, and Sumatra. They are excellent tree climbers. It belongs to the subgenus Empagusia along with the Bengal monitor, the Dumeril's monitor and other monitor lizards. It had previously been listed as a subspecies of Varanus bengalensis by some herpetologists. It is a diurnal monitor.
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
Clouded monitor is a carnivorous species, primarily feasting on invertebrates. While small crustaceans, mollusks, and earthworms constitute a significant part of its diet, it won't hesitate to capture amphibians and small rodents when opportunity arises.
Appearance
Clouded monitor is a medium-sized monitor lizard with a sturdy body and a long tail. It has rough, scaly skin that is primarily gray-blue, adorned with light spots and bands. The head features a sharp snout and the tail is often longer than the body. There are no notable differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Clouded monitor is marked by its solitary, arboreal lifestyle, spending a significant part of its time in trees. Despite its terrestrial mobility, it's adept at climbing and foraging. Known for its unique survival skill of 'playing dead', it releases a foul-smelling liquid from its cloaca when threatened. Also notable is its use of physical gesture communication, notably, a whipping tail action indicating discomfort.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Monitor lizards Genus
Monitor lizards Species
Clouded monitor 
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