Quick answer
Asian Water Monitors (Varanus salvator) are reptiles found across Asia. One of the largest lizards in the world. Adults typically weigh Up to 25 kg (55 lb), reach speeds of up to 30 km/h (19 mph), and live 10–20 years. They feed on carnivore (also scavenges) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Wetlands, rivers, mangroves, and coasts across South and Southeast Asia.
Key takeaway
Asian Water Monitors (Varanus salvator) are reptiles found across Asia. One of the largest lizards in the world. Adults typically weigh Up to 25 kg (55 lb), reach speeds of up to 30 km/h (19 mph), and live 10–20 years. They feed on carnivore (also scavenges) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Wetlands, rivers, mangroves, and coasts across South and Southeast Asia.
Asian Water Monitor overview
Asian Water Monitor (Varanus salvator) is an reptile listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight Up to 25 kg (55 lb); lifespan around 10–20 years.
Asian Water Monitor ecology
Diet: Carnivore (also scavenges). Habitat: Wetlands, rivers, mangroves, and coasts. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Asian Water Monitors and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild asian water monitors are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Asian Water Monitor profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Asian Water Monitors inhabit Wetlands, rivers, mangroves, and coasts across South and Southeast Asia. Their preferred habitat includes wetlands, rivers, mangroves, and coasts, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Asia.
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult asian water monitors typically measure about 2 m in length and weigh Up to 25 kg (55 lb). They can sprint at up to 30 km/h (19 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Asian Water Monitors are known for one of the largest lizards in the world — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Asian Water Monitor FAQs
What are key facts about asian water monitors?
Asian Water Monitors (Varanus salvator) are reptiles found across Asia. One of the largest lizards in the world. Adults typically weigh Up to 25 kg (55 lb), reach speeds of up to 30 km/h (19 mph), and live 10–20 years. They feed on carnivore (also scavenges) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Wetlands, rivers, mangroves, and coasts across South and Southeast Asia.
What is the scientific name of the asian water monitor?
Varanus salvator — used in research and conservation listings for asian water monitors.
What do asian water monitors eat?
Asian Water Monitors eat also scavenges, with seasonal and regional variation in Wetlands, rivers, mangroves, and coasts.
Where do asian water monitors live?
They are associated with Wetlands, rivers, mangroves, and coasts. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of asian water monitors?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.