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Nile Monitors are large, semi-aquatic lizards native to Africa, known as Africa's largest lizard, growing up to 8 feet long with powerful tails for swimming and sharp claws for climbing. They are opportunistic carnivores eating eggs, fish, small mammals, and more, basking by day and hiding at night, often near water. These intelligent reptiles use forked tongues for scenting, lay eggs in termite mounds, and can hold their breath underwater for up to 15 minutes, impacting ecosystems in Florida where they are invasive.
Physical Characteristics
Size: Up to 8 feet (2.4m) long, weighing up to 44 lbs, with a long, muscular tail.
Appearance: Gray-brown or olive skin with yellowish spots or bands, creating camouflage.
Features: Strong claws for climbing, a forked tongue to "taste" the air, and a rudder-like tail for swimming.
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Behavior & Diet
Activity: Diurnal (day-active), spending time basking and hunting.
Diet: Carnivorous, eating fish, frogs, birds, eggs (including croc and turtle eggs), insects, and carrion.
Swimming: Excellent swimmers, holding breath for 12-15 minutes.
Intelligence: Show problem-solving skills, like coordinating ambushes and counting eggs.
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Reproduction & Life Cycle
Nesting: Females lay large clutches (up to 60) in termite mounds for warmth and humidity.
Hatching: Babies emerge after months, independent but vulnerable.
Mating: Males fight fiercely for mates.
Habitat & Status
Native Range: Sub-Saharan Africa, near rivers, lakes, and swamps.
Invasive: Established in Florida, where they prey on native species like sea turtles.
Conservation: Listed as "Least Concern" by IUCN, but threatened by habitat loss and poaching in Africa.