Scientists now think that Goannas have venom glands similar to those of snakes. Goannas were once believed to be non-venomous.Most will eat any prey that they are able to catch and swallow whole.
Some goannas lay their eggs inside termite nests.They are fast runners and many are also excellent climbers and swimmers.Goannas will defend themselves ferociously using their tails, teeth and claws.The lizards live in a variety of habitats, including trees, swamps, and arid sand plains.Goannas are found almost everywhere in mainland Australia, but are not found on the island state of Tasmania.The perentie ( Varanus giganteus) is the largest species of goanna (and the world’s fourth-largest lizard).Most goannas are large lizards, but some are huge, growing to over 2 m in length!.(Iguanas are two species of lizard from the Americas.) The word ‘goanna’ may have originated from early Australian settlers referring to the lizards (incorrectly) as ‘iguanas’.There are 25 goanna species in Australia, and a further 5 species in Southeast Asia.The word ‘goanna’ is usually used to refer to Australian monitor lizards, but can also be used to refer to a number of Southeast Asian species.Lizards in this genus are known as monitor lizards.Goannas are lizards in the genus Varanus.On this page you’ll find goanna facts, pictures and videos. Goannas are among the best-known Australian animals.