Watch an Undersized Monitor Lizard Miraculously Survive a Crocodile Attack

Often mistaken for komodo dragons, monitor lizards are classified under the Varanus genus. The monitor lizards have extensive ranges. They use active hunting techniques and eat larger mammals as their prey. Due to these lizards’ active lifestyles, various studies on their metabolic capacity have been done. 

Researchers believe that monitor lizards have the most exceptional typical metabolic rates of any living reptile. Varanids frequently stand on their two hind legs while “monitoring,” hence it’s possible that the name “monitor lizard” was coined to characterize them. It’s probable that their custom of “warning others of the arrival of deadly creatures” contributed to its adoption.

Speaking of, a video online is making the rounds as it shows a crocodile attacking a monitor lizard at Sajnekhali of Sundarban in West Bengal. Together with fish, crocodiles consume several sorts of reptiles, mammals, and birds. Crocodiles don’t have particularly specialized diets.

Are you interested in seeing a lucky getaway? Take a look at the video below! 

A full-grown monitor lizard can weigh up to 300 pounds, giving a croc plenty of nourishment until they find its next meal. In this particular instance, the monitor lizard is enjoying a relaxing day in the sun, basking on the shore.

Everything changes when a hungry crocodile spots the lizard and jumps on the sandy shore to grab the creature tightly in its powerful jaws. The croc has the right back leg of the monitor lizard in its grasp, yet the lizard seems unbothered. 

A Lucky Escape

Slowly, the apex predator gets the lizard closer and closer to the water. Crocodiles are known to be the masters of patience and most of their prey doesn’t stand a chance. Although the footage doesn’t show why the crocodile lets the monitor lizard go.

Perhaps it is waiting for the injured lizard to become weak before making another attack. A top comment on the video says what we’re all thinking. It reads: 

“I am not an animal behavior specialist but the fact that the lizard got out of that mouth alive is a huge mystery. I really wonder whether or not the lizard did live to see another day though sometimes all it takes is an infected wound.”

Monitor lizards, surprisingly, are known for being quite aggressive. They are not afraid to utilize their lashing tail and keen claws when they perceive a threat. It’s shocking to see one be so calm as it gets attacked by a much larger animal. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Ondrej Prosicky/Shutterstock.com