The Thunder Dragon

or

The Monitor Lizard

In Sri Lanka the monitor lizard is called the Thunder Dragon.  Sri Lanka is one of the few places on earth where it is not hunted.  It is not only protected by law there but also by ancient tribal customs.

Here are some basic facts

Main features: Large greyish lizards, adults grow to over 2m long and weigh up to 25kg. Males are larger than females. Juveniles are more colourful.

Status in Singapore: Quite common, particularly in habitats near water.

World distribution: Asian subcontinent from India (and Sri Lanka) to China, down Southeast Asia to Indonesia, the Philippines, New Guinea islands in the Indian Ocean and South China Sea.

Classification: Family Varanidae, Suborder Sauria, Order Squamata.

Information taken from:  http://www.naturia.per.sg/buloh/verts/monitor_lizard.htm