MONITOR LIZARD (Varanus flavescens)

Status: CITES Appendix I,           IUCN: I        NPWC Act: Schedule I
Distribution:

National: Terai and lower elevations of the middle hills throughout Nepal.

Global: India, Pakistan, Nepal.

Distinctive Characters: Head is golden or yellow.

Habit and Habitat: They are carnivorous consuming any animals they can kill, from insects to small mammals including fish, amphibians and crustaceans. They are good swimmers and climbers. Occurs in tropical and lower subtropical zones, inhabiting forest, scrub, fields, villages and other open areas.

Threats: Monitors are endangered as a result of the trade of skins used for the manufacture of shoes, handbags and other goods.