Varanus olivaceus

lizard

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July 23, 2026

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Varanus olivaceus, also known as the Gray's monitor or olive-backed forest monitor, is a species of monitor lizard found on the island of Luzon in the Philippines. Unlike most monitor lizards, which are carnivorous, Varanus olivaceus is primarily frugivorous, meaning it eats fruit, though it will also consume animal prey.1

Monitor lizards, in general, belong to the family Varanidae and are characterized by their elongated heads and necks, heavy bodies, long tails, and well-developed legs. Their tongues are long and forked, similar to those of snakes. While the smallest monitor lizards are only about 20 cm (8 inches) long, some species, like the Komodo dragon, can grow to be the largest lizards in the world, reaching lengths of up to 3 meters (10 feet). Monitor lizards are found across Africa, Asia, Australia, and islands in the southwestern Pacific.1

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bitatawa and V. olivaceus (another monitor found on Luzon) are carnivorous and often consume large insects and spiders, other lizards, small mammals, and birds. V. komodoensis is known to capture much larger prey such as water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). V. olivaceus eats fruits in addition to animal…
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bitatawa and V. olivaceus (another monitor found on Luzon) are carnivorous and often consume large insects and spiders, other lizards, small mammals, and birds. V. komodoensis is known to capture much larger prey such as water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). V. olivaceus eats fruits in addition to animal…
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