The Common Water Monitor (Varanus salvator)

Probably locally extinct, but there are still some sightings out near reservoirs and lakes, mainly from released or escaped individuals that have made their home here.

These Common Water Monitor Lizards are the only Varanids and the largest lizards we have in Hong Kong: they can grow up to 4m. The photo above is of a juvenile, which have finer and prettier markings. They eat large insects, crustaceans, birds and even small mammals, and they love carrion (dead animals) too.