The Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) is a large member of the monitor lizard family (Varanidae).

Nile monitors grow to about 6 to 7 feet in length. They have muscular bodies, strong legs and powerful jaws. The teeth are sharp and pointed in juvenile animals and become blunt and peg-like in adults. They also possess sharp claws used for climbing, digging, defense, or tearing at their prey. Like all monitors they have a forked tongue, with highly developed olfactory properties.