Tenants left behind large lizard [View all]

https://www.sfgate.com/news/bayarea/article/alameda-giant-lizard-left-behind-by-tenants-in-21291453.php

Alameda police were recently called to a home where the former tenants had reportedly left behind a large Komodo dragon.

When police arrived, it turned out to be a young ornate Nile monitor -- a lizard species that grows up to 7 feet long.


"Due to the reptile's size and aggression, our team devised a plan to safely secure the animal," police said in a news release.

The lizards have powerful bites, strong claws, and forceful tails that can cause injuries. Police warned that such animals are suitable for beginner reptile keepers -- and never appropriate for children.

The monitor is now safely housed at the East Bay Vivarium in Berkeley, police said