Monitor lizards (Latin: Varanus) are reptiles belonging to the genus of squamates. They are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia, where they inhabit a variety of habitats such as forests, deserts, savannas, grasslands, and coastal areas. To date, around 60 species are known, which – depending on the species – reach lengths of between twenty centimeters and three meters and a weight between a few grams and around hundred kilograms.
Typical characteristics are their distinctive snout and large eyes, which give them good vision. Thanks to their long and forked tongue (like a snake), they can pick up smells from their surroundings. Their legs are strong enough to carry their body weight and move quickly too. The largest monitor lizard is the Komodo dragon.
Monitor lizards are primarily carnivores that hunt and catch their own prey. The saliva of (presumably all) monitor lizards is poisonous, so that prey that is injured but not killed will inevitably die after a while. Due to their excellent sense of smell, this animal is found later.

Despite their reputation as dangerous predators, monitor lizards are an important part of our ecosystem: They regulate prey populations and thus ensure biodiversity. Nevertheless, some monitor lizard species are threatened due to habitat loss and illegal trade (leather). The Komodo dragon, for example, is now classified as endangered and is actively protected. As with all endangered species, the preservation of natural ecosystems is crucial for the survival of many monitor lizard species.

And our monitor lizard? Doesn't it look peaceful and content? As a solitary animal, it quickly settles into a child's room and is sure to be a lot of fun. It also makes a good protector.

On the second picture the large monitor lizard is shown left hand.

Size: L 64 cm x W 33 cm x H 16 cm (~ 25.2" x 13" x 6.2")
Colour: Gray-Brown
Filling: Special polyester fibres
Manufacturer: Kösener Spielzeug Manufaktur GmbH, Rudelsburgpromenade 20 c, D-06628 Bad Kösen, email: info@koesener.de

The proceeds of this sale will be donated to a children's charity organisation.