25-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - NILE MONITOR (Varanus niloticus)

Nile monitors are large, semi-aquatic lizards native to sub-Saharan Africa that are also found in some parts of the United States due to being released or escaped pets. They are excellent swimmers and climbers, and their diet is opportunistic, consisting of fish, insects, birds, small mammals, and eggs. Nile monitors are known for their large clutches of eggs, which are often laid in termite mounds, and males compete fiercely for mating rights. 

Physical characteristics They can grow to be Africa's largest lizard, with some specimens reaching up to \(2.4\) meters (\(8\) feet) in length, though adults typically range from \(1.2\) to \(2.2\) meters (\(4\) to \(7\) feet).Their tails are muscular and often \(1.5\) times the length of their bodies, acting as a rudder for swimming.Their coloration is typically olive green to black with yellowish, V-shaped stripes on the head and bands or spots along their back.