The Nile Monitor is native to semi-desert and scrub, especially along rivers, in most of sub-Saharan Africa and along the Nile.
It is the second largest Nile reptile (after the crocodile) and can grow to over 2 metres (7 feet) in length.
It swims and climbs well.
The similar-looking West African Nile Monitor has been split out as a separate species on DNA evidence.