Mysore
Zoo has acquired water monitor lizards (Varanus salvator) from Madras
Crocodile Bank Trust, Mamallapuram, Chennai. The two pairs, two male
and two female, are in the age group of 12 and 15 years. The male measures
4.5 feet and the female 3.5 feet in length. They are housed in the reptile
section. Efforts will be made to breed them in captivity in order to
conserve the endangered species. Water monitor lizards' natural habitat
range from South Eastern Asia from Eastern Bengal to Southern China,
Ceylon and Indo-Australian islands. They feed on crustaceous fish, frogs,
birds, rats and snakes. Their life span extends to about 30 years.
