A majority of the eggs in a crocodile’s clutch will never hatch due to these factors. Unsurprisingly the two biggest killers are the. They also possess a “mosaic-like” pattern of scales on their upper surface. Northern alligator lizard. They have blackish-green bodies with differing patterns of bright yellow spots and stripes. Aside from desert. The California Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata multicarinata is a long brown, yellow or grey lizard with red blotches on the back and 9-13 dark bands on the sides, back and tail. 5 metres (15. They also have a unique set of scales on the. They are good swimmers, and can often be seen basking in the sun on A warm day. They are not venomous, and they do not have the ability to cause serious harm to people. The initiative is one supported by IFAW and other animal welfare groups. Female lizards also have the capacity to lay two or three hatches of eggs per mating season. Although, some males have been recorded to be 16 feet long and weigh a. Turtles, tuatara, lizards and snakes, and crocodiles make up the major groups of living reptiles today, and they collectively account for over 8,700 species. states of Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, and New Mexico and the Mexican states of Sonora and Sinaloa. In fact, the largest crocodilian species is the alligator snapping turtle, which can grow up to 6 feet in length and weigh over 100 pounds. Facts about the most dangerous animals: Alligators, sharks, panthers, snakes, spiders. The Striped Legless Lizard is most commonly found in southern New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, where it grows on grass plains. Elgaria kingii. See answer (1) Best Answer. They can live up to 10 years. Crocodiles and alligators are actually reptiles and not scientifically considered to be lizard species. Because of their docile nature and unusual appearance, alligator lizards are extremely popular pets. If you encounter a gator lizard in the wild, do not attempt to handle it. Adults reach a snout-to-vent length of about 10 cm (4 in) and a total length of roughly 25 cm (10 in). Animalia. Typically, sharks do not actually want to eat humans. Females tend to be slightly larger than males, with an average length of around 7 inches, while males typically measure around 6 inches in length. Crocodiles are far more dangerous to humans than. Overheating your Mexican alligator lizard can be very dangerous, so make sure that the basking area is not getting above the required temperature. 18. But which of these three pose the greatest threat to humans? Alligators and crocodiles are both large reptiles that can be found in tropical climates. Alligator lizards eat a variety of small prey, including insects, spiders, and other lizards. My brother and I used to catch lizards and snakes all the time. Alligator lizards, genus Elgaria, are members of the family Anguidae, a family of lizards found in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Venomous salivary secretion have been demonstrated in Iguanas (Iguanidae), glass/alligator lizards (Anguidae) and monitors (Varanidae)—notably the Komodo dragon. Although some lizards eat plants, most lizards feed on insects. “They are. "While black widow bites are not usually dangerous, they are very painful and can. While the brown portion is the lizard’s poop, the white part is essentially the lizard’s urine. The northern alligator lizard (Elgaria coerulea) is a medium-sized lizard that occurs on the North American west coast. Loss of weight. Wall lizards are known to eat their own young, as well as baby alligator lizards. There have been many documented cases of alligator-crocodile hybrids. Panamint Alligator Lizard. Read on to learn more about Florida’s most dangerous lizards. The Arizona alligator lizard is a large 5. 3. These lizards are good swimmers and climbers, and they are often. Crocodiles are bigger than alligators. Lizards vs Crocodiles (Video) Venemous; Common Diseases; Dangers Of Ownership; Physical Traits. They may enter your home searching for warm places like near light fixtures or heating vents. Description : Size: E. Are Alligator Lizards Harmful? No, alligator lizards are not harmful. There are at least 50 known species of monitor lizards, with new ones being discovered all the time. Alligators Have A “U-Shaped”, Crocodiles Have A “V-Shaped” Snout. The ideal temperature for a Mexican alligator lizard is 75-80 °F. Alligators and crocodiles are large, powerful reptiles that are not suitable for domestic life. In the wild, these lizards typically hunt during the day for their food. Alligator lizards are generally dark-colored, with patterns that can range from spots to stripes. They are tan to gray in color with a red or chocolate cross band with dark edges. Ohio Governor John Kasich signed Senate Bill 310, a law regulating the possession of dangerous wild animals (DWA) and restricted snakes, into law on June 5, 2012. Crevice spiny lizard Also known as: New Mexico crevice spiny lizard Size: Snout-to-vent length of up to 4. This plant can be found in coniferous forests, oak woodland chaparral, or grassland. While they may display defensive behaviors when provoked, their primary aim is to avoid conflict rather than engage in aggressive encounters. Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) Perhaps the most well-known venomous lizard is the Komodo dragon. 2 Vipers (family Viperidae) 2. The most dangerous lizards in Florida are invasive species, such as the Cuban Knight Anole, Green Iguana, Argentine Black and White Tegu, Tokay Gecko, and Nile Monitor. Advertisement. Is an alligator lizard dangerous? Alligator lizards are an endangered species. Unfortunately, Rome, Georgia is on the very high side of the Natural Disaster Index, coming in second in the country. These massive reptilians can grow more than 12 feet (3. The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) is a particularly dangerous shark. Introduced cinnabar moths are poisonous to these lizards, and may have deleterious effects on northwestern populations. To prevent lizards from entering the home, seal all small openings 1/4 inch and larger. An alligator's brain weighs only 8 or 9 grams and would take up only one-half of a tablespoon. While these massive reptiles can be found in all of the Gulf Coast states, their especially common in Florida. AnteatersSharks. That is still big if you were to accidentally encounter one in the wild!In the wild, black dragon lizards have few predators. Mutch says the alligator lizards are gone now. Our top-rated pet insurance plan can help cover up to 90% of the cost. - A lizard with a unique nickname could be harmful to Florida's environment and possibly harmful to people, according to biologists. The bites of American alligators rank sixth. Although children enjoy catching fence lizards, they are not particularly well-suited to captivity and make poor pets. Northern Alligator Lizards are medium sized, reaching sizes of around 100mm (4 in. Let’s find out. com. Alligator lizards have long, slender bodies that help them move quickly and stealthily. Young Komodo dragons eat small animals, eggs, insects, and small reptiles. Monitors are dangerous to pets and small animals. In 1987, the alligator became the official state reptile of Florida. Weakness, sweating, thirst, headache, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus) may develop. Adult alligators are much stronger than humans, making us naturally consider them as dangerous. The two extant species are the American alligator. Another threat these animals face is the ever-booming fashion industry. Common name: Arizona alligator lizard. Shop around if you want to find a good deal on the lizard from a local supplier. CC BY-SA 4. There are three subspecies of the Southern Alligator Lizard: California Alligator Lizard (E. The incident took place at 8 p. They are aggressive and will bite if threatened, which hurts but isn’t toxic. The term crocodile is sometimes used even more loosely to include all extant members of the order Crocodilia, which includes the alligators and caimans (family Alligatoridae. While they may exhibit defensive behaviors if they feel threatened, such as hissing or biting, they are unlikely to cause any serious harm. They can simultaneously remove both solids and liquids from their body. Northern alligator lizards are small to medium-sized rough-scaled lizards with short limbs and a long tail. Adult Gila monsters can grow to 2 feet long and weigh 5 pounds or more, making it our biggest native lizard. There are three major natural disaster threats that Rome is susceptible to—wildfires, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Larger crocodiles tend to eat larger prey items, however the average size of prey for all Freshwater Crocodiles is generally small (mostly less than 2cm²). 2 - 15. 75-5. There are no venomous or poisonous lizards in Florida, but there are still dangerous ones. While alligator lizards are harmless, there are three types of poisonous lizards to be aware of in the southwestern United States and Mexico: the Gila monster, the Mexican beaded lizard, and the Western diamondback rattlesnake. Some people believe lizards cannot eat mealworms because they are too small, but this is not the case. Caiman, any of several species of Central and South American reptiles that are related to alligators and are usually placed with them in the family Alligatoridae. multicarinata) has red blotches on. panamintina ), a similar appearing species occurring 400 km (240 mi) to the northwest in canyons of the Inyo, White, Panamint, and other. Moray eel (Muraenidae) Photo by Envato Elements. Males tend to grow larger and bulkier than females. Alligators are strong, huge, apex predators that control their habitats. These giant lizards have been known to attack and even kill humans. It quickly approaches the spider, moves into the perfect position for an attack, and then pounces. The bites of American. Both animals are known to be aggressive, and attacks on humans are not uncommon. The monitor lizard also knows no loyalty. See answer (1) Best Answer. Collared Lizards. Alligator lizards are not poisonous, and their bite will not be harmful to humans, although it is painful because of its sharp teeth. Venomous lizards, alligators and crocodiles, and iguanas can cause clinically significant bites. 2 feet. As with most lizards, they may detach their tail. 13 meters) and weighed 366 pounds (166 kilograms). [5] They are brown to black in color (the brown may be sandy or greenish) and have black stripes on their backs, but their most distinguishing characteristic is their bright blue bellies. Alligator lizards are a type of lizard that is found in North and South America. Punch the alligator, poke it in the eyes, hit it in the head. "When I was a wee graduate student, I read that alligator lizards could eat black widows," Chris Feldman,. S. The vast majority of. They are found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, North America and Oceania. Crocodile monitors are large, arboreal (or tree-dwelling) lizards from southeast Asia. The only poisonous lizard in the US – the Gila monster – lives in Nevada. Amongst all of them, below listed are the most dangerous lizards:. It is important to note that not all lizards are harmful or dangerous. The Madrean alligator lizard (Elgaria kingii) is a species of lizard in the family Anguidae. Common Sagebrush lizards are predated by nocturnal snakes in this region. They were around in the Mesozoic era, in the time of the dinosaurs! Alligators are one family of animals in the order Crocodilia, which belongs to the subclass of reptiles known as Archosauria. Snakes, bobcats, hawks, and coyotes will munch on one of these creatures if given a chance, but like many lizards, they can ditch their tails in a time of crisis. Spring is mating season for alligator lizards. While lizards typically prefer to avoid confrontation, in some cases they can bite or poison dogs. What we do know about crocodiles is that 6 out of the 23 species are dangerous to humans. If you’re thinking of getting an alligator lizard, here are a few things you should know. Common name: Eastern slender glass lizard. a potentially dangerous animal attaining a maximum length of about 4. The most common (and most dangerous) animals in Aruba. The University of Florida's Croc Docs regularly handle crocodiles and alligators, but Frank Mazzotti says it's not as dangerous as you might think. Diet The typical diet of E. Alligator lizards are found in almost any natural habitat in California (except most of the deserts and very high elevations. The male is biting the female’s head and neck region; this is termed the bite hold. Both alligators and crocodiles are large, powerful reptiles that can cause serious harm to humans. Tropical House Gecko ( Hemidactylus mabouia) Many people in the Caribbean Islands consider these little. Because of the crocodile’s size, it has more power and can therefore take the risks. The Panamint Alligator lizards have long bodies, large heads, and strong jaws like their larger. While the brown portion is the lizard’s poop, the white part is essentially the lizard’s urine. Are people dangerous to lizards? Lizards can be dangerous depending on if it has a poisonous sack. However, some lizards can excrete venom by biting, which can cause: Lethargy, Weakness. Lizards are a popular delicacy in many parts of the world. Lizards of Nevada Alligator Lizards. The Western Fence Lizard, a spiny lizard species with sharply pointed scales, is a member of the Spiny Lizard family. Various suggestions for removing Gila monsters include the. The dorsal (topside) and ventral (underside) scales are rectangular. Location in Taxonomic Tree . Are people dangerous to lizards? Lizards can be dangerous depending on if it has a poisonous sack. Komodo dragons are undoubtedly one of the world’s largest and most dangerous lizards. Alligator lizards are not poisonous creatures. Raccoons and skunks, among other mammals, may also feast on these lizards. 1. It typically has a long brown or black pellet-shaped portion with a smaller, semi-solid white “cap” or substance at the end. The species is native to the Pacific coast of North America. 8 cm) (Stebbins, 2003) and up to. However, the monitor lizard cannot be tamed. The alligator lizard is not hesitant when facing the spider. San Diego Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata webbii) A somewhat common and very large lizard with short limbs and a long tail. Birds also hunt for these small lizards. According to dream analyst Lauri Loewenberg, alligator dreams are a common one, and one she has a lot herself. They are native to certain areas of Mexico. They’re both large reptiles with lizard-like bodies, tough skin, long tails, stubby legs, elongated snouts, and large teeth. Some monitor lizard species have sharp. Other states currently have little or no legislation on these reptiles, but that might well change in the future. They're Lovers, not Cannibals! Our wet winter across the western U. All species of skinks share the same bright skin feature, which is why many assume they are poisonous. Various suggestions for removing Gila monsters include the. In general, however, alligators are considered to be more aggressive than crocodiles. Common in: Southern California. the oversized reptiles can move. Crocodiles kill more than a thousand people each year. A large monitor lizard technically has the ability to kill a human. multicarinata. Shark attacks mostly occur when a shark mistakes a human for a turtle or other creature. In Mississippi, there is no record of an alligator attack, fatal or not. Alligators are black or gray on top with a cream-colored underside, possess a U-shaped snout, and are smaller and timider than crocodiles. Alligators are generally considered to be more aggressive, while crocodiles are more likely to attack humans if they feel threatened. It quickly approaches the. Neon silver snake skin pattern texture background. While having a pet lizard may seem fun, monitor lizards are a big commitment and are. Common name: Texas horned lizard. The Western Fence Lizard is a spiny lizard with pointed scales. However, it is important to note that. ) snout to vent length and 254mm (10 in. A few closely related species are also known as “crocodile skinks,” but the red-eyed is the most well known. The first is the Seoane’s Viper, also known as the Baskian or Portuguese Viper. The Gila monster ( Heloderma suspectum, / ˈhiːlə / HEE-lə) is a species of venomous lizard native to the Southwestern United States and the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora. They are saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus), and they hold the record for the most bites. 1. The young dragons are 18 inches long and live in the trees for several months while they grow. Insects are not poisonous to lizards, but some people mistakenly believe that lizards cannot consume mealworms. Scientific name. However, if a Southern alligator lizard is accidentally ingested by a cat or dog, this can lead to temporary gastrointestinal issues, so consulting with a qualified vet is recommended. Sagebrush lizard (Sceloporus gracious) The sagebrush lizard is small yet adaptable with a wide. Alligator lizards do not typically bask in the sun out in the open or on top of a rock like many other lizard species. From fish-eating spiders to alligators, crocodiles. In. It may surprise you to know that, according to researchers, only 2% of Americans correctly identified alligators as reptiles. Reef sharks because they rarely grow over 5 foot long and tend to be timid around humans. Are alligator lizards dangerous? No. Northwestern salamander larvae and terrestrial adults are mildly poisonous, which generally allows them to survive alongside predators. The white cap is uric acid, which is excreted from the cloaca. Smaller pets can potentially be seen as a prey. These. In fact, alligator. An alligator, or colloquially gator, is a large reptile in the Crocodilia order in the genus Alligator of the family Alligatoridae. Certain species of Plestiodon skinks have blue tails when young. They are generally safe to eat when cooked properly. When you think about dangerous wildlife in Florida, many people think about the alligator. . Despite their small size, Northern Alligator Lizards are formidable predators. A pair of southern alligator lizards in a bite hold and potentially mating. Some people believe that the lizards are poisonous, and that they are completely harmless. mississippiensis) and the Chinese alligator ( A. Most of their scales are smooth and shiny with a gray and brown colored body. Identification Numbers. 8 cm) (Stebbins, 2003) and up to aprox. In fact, it is. First, let’s talk a bit about the diet of a Komodo dragon. Crocodiles, on the other hand, are predators. Fortunately, these small lizards, like the tiny gecko or anole, are not poisonous for dogs and cats to eat. The laws on keeping caimans differ by state. Along the sides of the body, between the dorsal and ventral scales, there is an area. Female alligators are fiercely protective of the nest and hatchlings and are especially dangerous. Study now. Large bony scales, a large head on an elongated body and powerful jaws probably give the lizards their common name. Six-Lined Racerunner. Copy. Symptoms and Signs Of about 3000 snake species throughout the world, only about 15% worldwide and 20% in the US are dangerous to humans because of venom or toxic salivary secretions (see table. An adult Northern Alligator Lizard can cost as little as $50 or as much as $75. Fadil Basymeleh. American crocodiles can have 'virgin births. American Alligator ( Alligator mississippiensis) The American alligator is an apex predator found in many lakes and rivers in Texas. Bear Grylls calls crocodiles the ‘ultimate predators’. is likely to make for an excellent spring mating season for alligator lizards, and we need your help to study their mating activity. ”. i see blue belly lizards more than daily outside my backyard they do not bite, though alligator lizards i see alot and have caught many, alligator lizards are alot more relaxed. Common Sagebrush lizards are predated by nocturnal snakes in this region. Alligators and crocodiles are among the largest reptiles in the world. Wiki User. There are three subspecies of the Southern Alligator Lizard: California Alligator Lizard (E. They seem to prefer sunny spots with some cover. Southern Alligator Lizards in California. Birds, rodents and other lizards are part of what a tegu would eat in the wild. Six-Lined Racerunner. ) They’re impressive, dangerous and we knew a lot. Description : Size: 3 5/8 - 6 inches long from snout to vent (9. Of all 23 species of crocodiles and alligators only 8 have been known to attack humans without provocation. com. ∙ 13y ago. And as the state has seen a recent population boom since 2020. Like many lizards, this species can drop its tail if attacked, possibly giving it a chance to flee. The Panamint Alligator Lizard prefers sandy slopes, creek beds, and bajadas from 2,000 to 6,000 feet. This is a list reptiles in Guatemala, including snakes, lizards, crocodilians, and turtles. Different types of lizards need different amounts of water. Southern Alligator Lizards in the United States have a dangerous favorite food – the Black Widow Spider!. They found that on the spectrum of regenerative ability, alligators fall somewhere between lizards and mammals. The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) is a particularly dangerous shark. Alligator lizards are not poisonous, and their bite will not be harmful to humans, although it is painful because of its sharp teeth. Crocodiles and alligators have both killed human beings in the past, but several factors make crocodiles far more dangerous than alligators. Crocodile. sinensis ). Generally speaking, alligator dreams tend to relate to one of two themes: biting criticism, and having a thick skin. Northern Alligator Lizard. Nassau County Emergency Services officers ended up removing three Gila monsters, which are venomous lizards, one alligator, two crocodile-like lizards known as Caimans and five bearded lizards. This lizard’s small eyes and powerful jaws do bring to mind visions. Shake the mixture well and spray it in the corners of your home, and outside, along access points like doors and windows. Southern Alligator Lizards in California have a dangerous favorite food – the Black Widow Spider! This highly venomous spider doesn’t have very many predators, but Southern Alligator. "Across the board, any sort of creature in a dream that has a big mouth, sharp teeth, and is known for biting—like. The cloaca allows the lizard to defecate and remove uric acid from the body. 3 feet (3. Fortunately, Panamint alligator lizards are completely different from the previous 2, at least in terms of appearance. These include. A reduced digit count and reduced limb size is, however, present in the obscure taxa . Alligators are advanced reptiles. Their venom, although mild to humans, can be deadly to smaller animals, including small dogs, cats or other pets. Genus Gerrhonotus 41. A house with water, food and shelter are what attracts lizards in your home. Most monitors are shy and will avoid humans, but may attack if provoked. How to Trick or Treat Safely with Your Dog. Alligators & Crocodiles. of 53. kingii was found on the basis of allozymes (Good 1988) to be the Panamint Alligator Lizard ( E. There are few records for this. 4 inches snout to vent length), less robust, have orange- or rust-colored axilla (armpits), lack yellow coloration on the posterior surface of the thighs and the spiny dorsal scales are smaller than in western fence lizards. 2 cm). Wiki User. They are harmless bur can be aggressive and will bite. 18. Diet The typical diet of E. For some lizards, particularly the southern alligator lizard, the venom of black widow spiders, deadly for many other small animals, certainly does not kill it. Alligator lizards are carnivores, and feed on insects, small mammals, and other lizards. Eggs are placed in rock crevices or burrows of rodents. The tail. When early Spanish explorers first discovered these massive reptiles, they called them “el legarto,” or “big lizard. 2. In this order are 23 different species, including the American alligator. coerulea includes crickets, slugs, beetles, spiders, and moths, but it will also take larger prey, such as small lizards, and will even eat small baby mice if given the opportunity. [4] The alligator lizard is not hesitant when facing the spider. Additionally, monitor lizards have the potential to inflict. The best thing to do is to keep them in a tank with. #4. 6 meters) long and can weigh up to 1,000 pounds (450 kg). Alligator. Find high-quality stock photos that you won't find anywhere else. Above Image: A pair of mating southern alligator lizards observed by Jacob, Oscar (age 5), and Mae (age 4) org/observations/73385631 in their front yard in the Valley Village neighborhood of Los Angeles on April 7, 2021. Orange: Anniella stebbinsi - Southern California Legless Lizard. Lion Pride Gets Their Thanksgiving Dinner Early With This Massive Nile Crocodile. Alligator lizards tend to feed on other lizards that are close to or greater than their own size. longicaudus. It is a prolific genus with over 391 worldwide, and there are 9 varieties on the island. on May 1, just off the West Calusa Club Drive in Kendall, Florida. All victims were owners or family of the owners. Caiman lizards can eat a variety of foods, but it’s best to stick with what they would eat in the wild, like snails, shellfish, and insects. Search from 3,121 Alligator Lizards Pictures stock photos, pictures and royalty-free images from iStock. Their limbs are short, but alligator lizards have long tails, sometimes as much as twice the body length. If you have a pet hamster, never let your tegu unattended near it. Mealworms can be eaten by a wide range of lizards, including desert and western fence lizards. Crocodiles ( family Crocodylidae) or true crocodiles are large semiaquatic reptiles that live throughout the tropics in Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia. Madrean Alligator LizardThe caiman lizard is a large reptile with a green body and reddish-orange head. You can catch a skink using a snare, which is a long rod with a small rope on one end. Komodo dragons can run 11 miles per hour, while alligators can run up to 30 mph. This law was introduced to avoid alligators losing their fear of humans and associating humans with food, which could be dangerous. Their colors vary based on their environment: while often black, alligators may also come in shades of brown, gray, and even green. Luckily, these lizards aren’t very aggressive. Here are some examples of the wildlife in Florida that can be dangerous to humans. WACO, Texas — It's not every day you'll see an alligator in Waco unless you’re a daily visitor to the Cameron Park Zoo. 1 day ago · Mazzotti has spent the decades since studying crocodiles, alligators, and many other reptile species in Everglades National Park and beyond. The others are species of Mexican beaded lizards that are found in Guatemala and Mexico. Alligators are large reptiles with a reputation for being aggressive and dangerous. Dizziness. October 2023. Some countries use turtles, crocodiles, snakes and lizards as a source of protein in the human food chain. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are not poisonous and will not. Do everything that you can to force the alligator to release you. They are typically docile and not very aggressive. 2 feet in length while male alligators average a length of 11. Gekkota: This group contains every single species of gecko, including those with eyelids. Our website provides access to zoo, animal, plant, conservation, and veterinary information resources. The specific name, kingii, is in honor of Phillip Parker King, an Australian-born Royal Navy officer who surveyed the coast of South America. There are 45 lizard species native to Texas. I am Romero Esposito, and I am passionate about reptiles. There are plenty of creepy crawlies that you should be aware of on land. Animal name origin. All crocodiles should be avoided. These pages are part of the San Diego Zoo Global Library website. 31. Common in: Southern California. These lizards are primarily found in forested areas at elevations of 1,000 to 11,000 feet. Unlike the other lizards on this list, the American alligator is native to Florida and not invasive. An adult alligator lizard reaches around 4 inches long from the snout to the back side, not counting its tail. While they can be wounded, their bites are not life-threatening. Panamint Alligator Lizard. European wall lizards have longer limbs and toes, and may have green or blue. This combined image shows Todd Hardwick wrangling, "Fred," a 10-foot alligator out of a. A caiman ( / ˈkeɪmən /; also cayman as a variant spelling [1] from Taíno kaiman [2] [additional citation (s) needed]) is an alligatorid belonging to the subfamily Caimaninae, one of two primary lineages within the Alligatoridae family, the other being alligators. 5 inches long from snout to vent (length does not include the tail). Panamint Alligator LizardAlligator lizards, which can reach two feet in length, also are covered in colorful, rectangular scales with dark crossbands. Madrean Alligator Lizard. Lizards are more like ancient reptiles than either snakes or turtles. They are relative Easy to care for, and can be a lot of fun to watch. While having a pet lizard may seem fun, monitor lizards are a big commitment and are.