About Varanus albigularis Daudin, 1802
Varanus albigularis, scientifically named Varanus albigularis Daudin, 1802, is on average the most massive lizard in Africa. Adult males average 6 to 8 kg (13 to 18 lb), while females weigh 3.2 to 5 kg (7.1 to 11.0 lb). Large mature males can reach weights of 15 to 17 kg (33 to 37 lb), making the species slightly smaller than the Nile monitor in terms of maximum size. It is the second longest African lizard, after the Nile monitor. Mature specimens typically measure 0.85 to 1.5 meters (2 ft 9 in to 4 ft 11 in), and exceptionally large specimens can reach 2 meters (6 ft 7 in) in total length, including the tail. Its tail and body are equal in size. Its head and neck are the same length, and are distinct from each other. The bulbous, convex snout creates an angular, box-like head appearance. Its forked tongue is pink or bluish, and its body scales are usually a mottled gray-brown with yellowish or white markings. This species is found across multiple regions of Africa: Central Africa (Democratic Republic of the Congo/Zaire), Southern Africa (Namibia, Botswana, Republic of South Africa, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia, Angola), East Africa and the African Great Lakes region (Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania), and the Horn of Africa (Ethiopia, Somalia). It inhabits a variety of arid habitats, including steppes, grasslands, and savannas, and often occurs on rock kopje (inselberg) formations scattered across the landscape. It is generally not found in desert interiors, rainforests, or thick scrub forests.
