A large, tree-climbing lizard from Australia, the lace monitor (Varanus varius) name comes from the intricate, lace-like pattern of cream, yellow, or light-green spots and bands traversing its dark scales. The term "monitor" originates from the Latin monere ("to warn") which refers to the lizard's tendency to stand upright on its hind legs to inspect or "monitor" its environment. Also known as the tree goanna, Lace monitors have a forked tongue like snakes and are mildly venomous, like their close relative, the Komodo dragon.
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