Goanna is the name used to refer to any number of Australian monitor lizards of the genus Varanus, as well as to certain species from Southeast Asia. This one was about 2 meters in length.

There are around 30 species of goanna, 25 of which are found in Australia. They are a varied group of carnivorous reptiles that range greatly in size and fill several ecological niches.

The goanna features prominently in Aboriginal mythology and Australian folklore.

The goanna's hefty tail can be dangerous when swung, much like a crocodile's; small children and dogs have been knocked down by such attacks. Often victims in goanna attacks are bystanders, watching the person antagonising the goanna.

Alarmed goannas can mistake standing humans for trees and attempt to climb off the ground to safety, which is understandably painful, as well as distressing for both human (to say the least) and beast.

Great name for an Ozzy Rock Band too - The Goanna Band, formed in 1977, with great hits like "Solid Rock" (1982), "Let the Franklin Flow" and their debut album, "Spirit of Place".

Have a look and listen: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjzCDNOBicw" rel="nofollow">www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjzCDNOBicw</a>

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