Varanus ornatus
A species of Monitor lizards Scientific name : Varanus ornatus Genus : Monitor lizards
Varanus ornatus, A species of Monitor lizards
Scientific name: Varanus ornatus
Genus: Monitor lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Ltshears , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The back is dark – olive green to black – with cross bands of yellow or cream color ocelli plus additional bands on the tail. The ventral side is yellowish with gray banding. The number of ocelli bands on the body, four, or five, was supposed to distinguish V. ornatus from V. niloticus, which has from six to nine. The markings fade somewhat as the animal matures. Ornate monitors are quite large and can grow up to two metres in length. 
General Info
Lifespan
8-12 years
Diet
Varanus ornatus's dietary habits primarily lean towards carnivory, with a preference for small mammals, birds, and eggs. It often feeds on invertebrates such as crustaceans and mollusks, displaying opportunistic feeding behavior.
Appearance
The varanus ornatus is a large monitor lizard with an elongated body and a slender, tapered tail. Its scales are mostly black or dark grey, interlaced with yellow or cream bands forming a striking pattern. The varanid lizard possesses a muscular, laterally compressed tail and strong, well-developed limbs used for rapid movement. Sexual dimorphism is apparent, with males being larger and bearing broader heads and heavier bodies compared to females.
Behavior
Varanus ornatus exhibits predominantly solitary and territorial behavior, utilizing claws to defend its territory. Its diet consists mainly of invertebrates, small mammals, and eggs, showcasing adept climbing and swimming abilities during foraging. Known for its diurnal activity pattern, it primarily hunts in daylight, a distinguishing feature within its genus.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Monitor lizards Genus
Monitor lizards Species
Varanus ornatus 
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