Varanus albigularis Daudin, 1802

Scientific Naming and Status

Varanus albigularis, scientifically named Varanus albigularis Daudin, 1802, is on average the most massive lizard in Africa.

Average Weight Range

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).

Maximum Male Weight

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.

Length Ranking

It is the second longest African lizard, after the Nile monitor.

Total Length Range

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.

Body and Tail Proportion

Its tail and body are equal in size.

Head and Neck Proportion

Its head and neck are the same length, and are distinct from each other.

Snout and Head Shape

The bulbous, convex snout creates an angular, box-like head appearance.

Tongue and Scale Features

Its forked tongue is pink or bluish, and its body scales are usually a mottled gray-brown with yellowish or white markings.

Geographic Distribution

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).

Typical Habitat

It inhabits a variety of arid habitats, including steppes, grasslands, and savannas, and often occurs on rock kopje (inselberg) formations scattered across the landscape.

Habitat Exclusions

It is generally not found in desert interiors, rainforests, or thick scrub forests.