Varanids facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Varanids |
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| Varanus bitatawa | |
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Anguimorpha
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Varanoidea
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Varanidae
Merrem, 1820
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Varanidae is the scientific name for the family of animals known as monitor lizards. These amazing reptiles are a group of meat-eating lizards. They include some of the largest lizards alive today, like the famous Komodo dragon and the long crocodile monitor.
The Varanidae family mainly contains the living genus called Varanus. It also includes some groups of lizards that are now extinct, meaning they no longer exist. The closest living relatives to monitor lizards are the anguid and helodermatid lizards.
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All About Monitor Lizards
Monitor lizards are a fascinating group of reptiles. They are known for their large size and powerful bodies. These lizards can be found in many parts of the world. They live in places like Africa, Asia, and Australia.
What Makes Them Special?
Monitor lizards have several unique features. They have long necks, strong tails, and sharp claws. Their bodies are covered in tough scales. Many species also have very good eyesight and a strong sense of smell. They use their long, forked tongues to "smell" their surroundings. This helps them find food and avoid danger.
Where Do Monitor Lizards Live?
Monitor lizards live in many different habitats. Some prefer forests, while others live in deserts. You can find them in grasslands, rocky areas, and even near water. Some monitor lizards spend a lot of time in trees. Others are excellent swimmers. Their ability to adapt helps them survive in various environments.
What Do Monitor Lizards Eat?
All monitor lizards are carnivores. This means they eat other animals. Their diet can include many things.
- Insects
- Birds and their eggs
- Small mammals like rodents
- Other reptiles, including snakes
- Fish
- Even carrion (dead animals)
The Komodo dragon, for example, is known to hunt large animals. It can even take down deer or wild pigs.
Famous Monitor Lizards
There are many different types of monitor lizards. Each one is special in its own way.
- Komodo Dragon: This is the largest living lizard. It can grow up to 10 feet long! Komodo dragons live on a few islands in Indonesia.
- Crocodile Monitor: This lizard has a very long tail. It lives in New Guinea and spends a lot of time in trees.
- Gray's Monitor: This unique monitor lizard from the Philippines mostly eats fruit. This is unusual for a monitor lizard.
Images for kids
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The extinct Saniwa ensidens
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Gray's monitor (Varanus olivaceus) is a tree-dwelling varanid from the Philippines that primarily feeds on fruit
See also
In Spanish: Varánidos para niños
