Cat-Eating Monitor Lizards Are Invading Florida

FORT MYERS, Florida – Nile monitor lizards that can grow to over 5 feet long and weigh close to 15 pounds are spreading through Florida.

The invasive species are known in their native Africa to prey or scavenge for a variety of small animals, including domestic cats.

In areas where Nile monitors are abundant in Florida, they have also attacked small pets and livestock such as chickens.

Nile monitors are skillful climbers and adept swimmers that can remain underwater for 12-15 minutes.

The Nile monitor’s high reproduction rate, diverse diet, and ability to travel over land and in fresh…