SCIENTIFIC NAME: Varanus exanthematicus

The Savannah monitor is a stout, carnivorous lizard found in western and central Africa in open forest and rocky savannas. Savannah monitors bask frequently and are agile both on land and in water.  The Savannah monitor feasts during the wet season when food is plentiful and easy to find.  During this season, which lasts about eight months, this large monitor can consume up to one tenth of its body weight in a single day.  Savannah monitors are meat-eating lizards and will consume anything they are capable of dismembering and digesting. During the dry season when good is less readily available, the monitor will survive off the fat reserves it builds up during this time. 

With a wide head, and short neck and tail, the Savannah monitor averages a length of 4-5 ft and weighs about 12-15 lbs. Its body is typically a grey to yellow color with symmetrical rows of circular, dark edged yellow spots across its back.  Its tongue is blue and snake-like (forked). Many species hold their heads erect on their long necks, which gives them the appearance of being alert.  To intimidate predators, this lizard may engage in various behaviors such as lashing out with its tail, inflating its throat, hissing loudly, turning sideways, and compressing its body.