The nile monitor was confiscated and the seller charged with possession of wildlife without a permit.
A man in Massachusetts who attempted to sell a Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) on a Facebook group page was arrested in a sting and charged with possession of wildlife without a permit.
MA Environmental Police
This nile monitor was confiscated and the seller charged with possession of wildlife without a permit.
On October 24, undercover Massachusetts Environmental police arranged for a meeting with the seller at the Holyoke Mall in Holyoke, Mass. in an effort to “purchase” the lizard, and when the police met the seller, the seller was apprehended and charged. The Nile monitor is illegal to possess in the state of Massachusetts without the proper permits.
The three foot long lizard was sent to a permitted facility that is licensed to care for reptiles.
Want To Learn More?
The Monitor Lizard Foursome For Expert Keepers
Nile monitors are native to Africa and are invasive in Florida. The reptile can grow to more than six get in length and are known to have aggressive and ill-tempered attitudes. They are semi-aquatic and are rarely found away from water. The species is kept by expert keepers and are not recommended for those new to the hobby. While that 10 inch nile monitor hatchling may look cute at your local reptile store, they get very large and require expert care.
