Goanna lizard Adventures

Watching Goanna lizard adventures as they wander through the bush or swim through fresh water streams searching for natural food is fascinating.

There are several species of Goanna and a lot more smaller lizards native to the area we travel through. Early settlers thought the Goannas were a form of the South American Iguana, however they are actually monitor lizards, the same family as the giant Komodo Dragons. The largest of the 20 Australian species, the Perentie Goanna (Varanus giganteus) grows to around 2 meters in length.

A Goanna ambles along the road.

They prey on any small animals they can find, including insects, lizards, snakes, mammals, birds or eggs. They have sharp claws and can be aggressive if threatened, rearing up on their hind legs and hissing loudly. Some species live in dry desert country, while others prefer permament creeks and waterholes and are often seen by people cooling off with a swim in the clear water.

A smaller Goanna is harder to see in the dry bush.

Goannas are an important part of traditional Aboriginal Bush Tucker, and are often part of their traditions and paintings.

A Water Monitor captured by Marcella's camera at Buley Rockholes in Litchfield Park

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