Nile monitor
A species of Monitor lizards, Also known as Iguana, River leguaan Scientific name : Varanus niloticus Genus : Monitor lizards
Nile monitor, A species of Monitor lizards
Also known as:
Iguana, River leguaan
Scientific name: Varanus niloticus
Genus: Monitor lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) is a large member of the monitor lizard family (Varanidae) found throughout much of Africa, but is absent from the west, where it is replaced by Varanus stellatus. Other common names include the African small-grain lizard, water leguaan or river leguaan (leguan, leguaan, and likkewaan mean monitor lizard in South African English, and can be used interchangeably).
General Info
Lifespan
20-25 years
Diet
Nile monitor is primarily a carnivorous species, showcasing a predilection for fish and small mammals. This includes rodents, birds, insects, and amphibians, although they exhibit substantial adaptability and opportunism in dietary choices.
Appearance
Nile monitor is a large monitor lizard with an elongated body and muscular, laterally compressed tail. Its leathery skin features a pattern of yellow and olive green, with oval spots down the length of its body. Young nile monitor are more vibrant, with distinctive banding. Both genders sport sharp claws and forked tongues but males are generally larger with more pronounced nostrils.
Behavior
Nile monitor are primarily solitary, diurnal animals with territorial tendencies, often marking territory with scent glands. They are excellent swimmers and climbers, using these skills during foraging and evasion of predators. A distinct behavior observed is their basking rituals after meals to facilitate digestion.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Monitor lizards Genus
Monitor lizards Species
Nile monitor 
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