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Project Noah Nature School
Varanus salvator
Largest of the three Monitor species found in Singapore (up to 3m long). A large powerful lizard basically grey/black with faint yellow striping along its back and yellow markings dotted over its limbs. Also the most common species in Singapore.
Very versatile species found throughout the island. At home in water, up trees or just on the forest floor. The first images are of one in a small lake at the Japanese Gardens but have included a couple more images taken at the Botanical Gardens just to show versatility and last image taken at the Central Catchment Reserve.
Monitors do secrete a mild venom and have well documented appalling dental hygiene, so dont get bitten! They are generally shy and non aggressive however. Ref: National Parks and Gardens Singapore.
Spotted on Feb 3, 2015
Submitted on May 10, 2015
3 Comments
Hi SugarCake, can really recommend the Botanic Gardens in the city. Have always seen Water Monitors there plus usually a good range of birds insects/spiders and squirrels etc. Lots of other places too of course.
I'm going to Malaysia in a few months and will be staying in Singapore I will be sure to look out for it.
Thanks Polilla. As you can see, they are pretty versatile in their environment which makes them great predators.