# Nile Monitor (*Varanus niloticus*)

> The Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) is a large African water monitor that raids crocodile and bird nests for eggs and also takes fish, frogs, and carrion. Adults often weigh around 15 kg and reach nearly 2 m. Native across sub-Saharan wetlands — and invasive in Florida — it is listed Least Concern.

- **Category:** Reptile
- **Conservation status (IUCN):** Least Concern
- **Range:** Rivers and wetlands across much of sub-Saharan Africa; also invasive in Florida.
- **Canonical page:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/monitor-lizard/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Scientific classification

- **Kingdom:** Animalia
- **Phylum:** Chordata
- **Class:** Reptilia
- **Order:** Squamata
- **Family:** Varanidae
- **Genus:** Varanus

## Facts at a glance

| Attribute | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Scientific name | Varanus niloticus |
| Diet | Carnivore (eggs, fish, carrion) |
| Habitat | Rivers, lakeshores, and wetlands |
| Lifespan | Around 15 years in the wild (varies by population and captivity). |
| Weight | About 15 kg typical adult mass (sex and region vary). |
| Top speed | Up to roughly 20 km/h when moving at speed. |
| Conservation status | Least Concern (IUCN) |

## Powerful aquatic monitor

Long claws, a muscular flattened tail for swimming, and forked tongues for scent-tracking mark Nile monitors. They bask on banks, climb trees when young, and can sprint short distances on land.

## Eggs, fish, and carrion

Famous nest predators of crocodiles and ground-nesting birds, they also eat fish, amphibians, crabs, rodents, and carrion. Strong jaws crush shells and bones.

## Rivers across Africa — and Florida

Rivers, lakeshores, and wetlands across much of sub-Saharan Africa. Escaped or released pets established breeding populations in Florida, where they threaten native wildlife.

## Invasive risk beyond Africa

In native range they remain Least Concern. In Florida, managers work to limit spread because monitors prey on eggs of turtles, alligators, and birds.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do Nile monitors eat crocodile eggs?

Yes — they are adept nest raiders and can significantly affect local crocodile nesting success.

### How big do Nile monitors get?

Large adults commonly approach 1.5–2 m in total length and around 15 kg.

### Are Nile monitors venomous?

Monitors have oral glands that produce toxins, but bites mainly cause mechanical injury and infection risk; medical care is advised.

### Why are Nile monitors in Florida?

Released or escaped pets founded invasive populations in warm wetlands.

### Where do Nile monitors live naturally?

Rivers and wetlands across much of sub-Saharan Africa. Native range summary: Rivers and wetlands across much of sub-Saharan Africa; also invasive in Florida.

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/monitor-lizard/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.