Common name : Monitor lizard
Scientific name : Varanus sp.
Family : Varanidae
Native to : Australia and some parts of South-East Asia
Interesting fact : Like snakes, goannas can flick their tongues in the air to sense their prey.
Conservation status : Least Concern
With about 30 species, goannas are found in a variety of habitats. Most are large and stocky with sharp teeth and claws. The largest species is 2.5 metres long and the smallest pygmy goanna is only 20 cm long. Their speckled dark brown bodies help them camouflage. In addition to mammals, birds and other reptiles, they also eat dead animals.
