Varanus niloticus, also known as the Nile monitor, is a large lizard native to sub-Saharan Africa. It thrives in various habitats, including savannas, forests, and floodplains, often near water. Known for its sharp claws, powerful tail, and keen hunting skills, it preys on fish, birds, and small mammals.

Varanus niloticus, commonly known as the Nile monitor, is native to sub-Saharan Africa. Its distribution spans across a wide range of countries, including but not limited to Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and down to the southern parts of Africa such as Botswana and South Africa. The species is typically found in regions that are close to water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and swamps.

The Nile monitor inhabits a variety of environments, predominantly favoring areas with access to water. It thrives in habitats such as savannahs, grasslands, and forests that are near aquatic environments. The climate in these regions ranges from tropical to subtropical, with seasonal variations that may include wet and dry periods. The availability of water is a critical factor for their habitat preference, as it plays a significant role in their diet and breeding habits.

Varanus niloticus occupies an ecological niche as a semi-aquatic predator and scavenger. Its diet is diverse, consisting of fish, amphibians, small mammals, birds, eggs, and invertebrates, as well as carrion. This adaptability in diet helps it thrive in various environments. The Nile monitor is known for its excellent swimming abilities, which aid in hunting and escaping predators. It plays an important role in controlling the populations of its prey and in the ecosystem as a whole.