The Asian water monitor (Varanus salvator) searching for its prey, filmed at Kaziranga National Park, Assam.
During our visit to Kaziranga National Park in Assam, we had a thrilling encounter on our very first safari. We came across a large Asian water monitor, almost 6-8 feet long. This impressive creature swam fearlessly in the water, its forked tongue flicking in and out to sense its aquatic prey.
We watched in excitement, as this was our first time observing such a large monitor other than the Indian Monitor. The water monitor has beautiful patterns of blackish with yellow spots on its back, and its body is muscular with long, powerful, laterally compressed tails. Its keeled scales, with larger ones on top of the head than on the back, added to its distinctive appearance. The lizard’s long neck and elongated snout completed its formidable look.
We observed it foraging underwater for about 10 minutes before it resurfaced with a fish head skeleton in its mouth. It then slowly swam out of our sight, disappearing behind the walls of a dam. We were awestruck for several moments to see this water monitor’s grace in its natural habitat.
Water monitors, like many reptiles, are surrounded by various myths and misconceptions. Here are some Common Myths about Water Monitors:
Myth: Water monitors are venomous.
Fact: Water monitors are not venomous. They rely on their sharp teeth and powerful jaws to capture and kill prey. Some lizard species have mild venom, but it is not a significant factor in water monitors.
Myth: Seeing a water monitor brings bad luck.
Fact: In some cultures, spotting a water monitor is considered an omen or brings bad luck. However, these beliefs are purely superstitious. Water monitors are simply part of the natural ecosystem and do not influence luck.
Myth: Water monitors can hypnotize their prey.
Fact: There is no scientific basis for the idea that water monitors can hypnotize their prey. They are effective hunters due to their keen senses and physical abilities, not because of any mystical powers.
Myth: Water monitors eat only carrion.
Fact: While water monitors are opportunistic feeders and will eat carrion if available, they actively hunt live prey such as fish, small mammals, birds, and other animals.
Myth: Water monitors can survive without water.
Fact: Water monitors are semi-aquatic and rely on access to water for hunting, drinking, and thermoregulation. They can venture onto land but need a habitat with water sources to thrive.
Myth: Water monitors are the same as Komodo dragons.
Fact: Water monitors and Komodo dragons are both members of the Varanidae family, but they are distinct species with different behaviors, sizes, and habitats. Komodo dragons are native to Indonesia and are much larger than water monitors.
Myth: Water monitors are aggressive and dangerous to humans.
Fact: Water monitors are generally shy and prefer avoiding human contact. Bites or aggressive behavior typically occur only when they feel cornered or provoked.
Myth: Water monitors can unhinge their jaws to swallow large prey.
Fact: Unlike snakes, water monitors cannot unhinge their jaws. They do have flexible ligaments and powerful muscles that allow them to consume relatively large prey by tearing it into manageable pieces.
Understanding these myths and the realities of water monitors helps in appreciating these fascinating reptiles and encourages coexistence and conservation efforts.
While water monitors are relatively common, they face threats from habitat destruction, hunting for their skin and meat, and the pet trade. Water monitors are fascinating reptiles, known for their adaptability and impressive hunting skills. Observing one in the wild, especially one as large as this one, is a memorable experience.
#lizard
#lizards
#monitorlizard
#monitorlizards
#lizardvideo
#watermonitor
#kaziranganationalpark
#छिपकली
#nikonp1000
#4kwildlife
#reptile
#monitor
#monitors
#reptilesofindia
#wildencounter
#viralpatel
#walkwithnature
/ @walkwithnature6678
2 июл 2024
