What is a goanna?
A goanna is a type of large monitor lizard found in Australia. Goannas have long bodies, strong claws, long tails and forked tongues. There are around 30 species, from small rock-dwellers to the giant perentie.
The word goanna is believed to come from iguana, a name early settlers used for these lizards, although goannas are not related to iguanas.
Goannas are found in almost every habitat across Australia, from deserts to rainforests. Some, such as the lace monitor, are excellent tree climbers.
Predators and scavengers
Goannas eat insects, birds, eggs, small mammals, reptiles and carrion. They often raid bird nests and rubbish bins near campgrounds.
The perentie, the largest Australian goanna, can grow to more than two metres long. Scientists have discovered that goannas have mild venom glands, which may help them subdue prey.
Goannas are important in Aboriginal culture and are traditionally hunted as food in some regions. In northern Australia, invasive cane toads have caused declines in some goanna populations, because the lizards die after eating the poisonous toads. Visitors should never feed goannas.