Nile monitor

The Nile monitor is a hefty lizard that patrols rivers and dry landscapes across Africa. Though smaller than its giant monitor cousins, it still ranks among the world's largest lizards. These adaptable reptiles have even established themselves as newcomers in parts of North America.

• Found along the Nile River and throughout sub-Saharan Africa's drier regions
• Some populations in West Africa may be separate species
• Called 'water leguaan' in some areas due to its river habitats