3-feet-long monitor lizard captured in Antipolo City
Published Jul 9, 2023 04:50 am
A three-feet-long monitor lizard or "bayawak" was captured by a resident in Barangay Dalig, Antipolo City.
According to the Antipolo City Veterinary Office (CVO), the monitor lizard weighed around 10 kilograms.
Jun-Andeng Ynares and CVO FB Page / MANILA BULLETIN
The resident surrendered the monitor lizard to the barangay, and was later turned over to the Antipolo City Animal Control Team upon responding to the report. The CVO explained that monitor lizards secrete venom that they use to kill their small prey. It noted that the lizards pose more danger to pet dogs and cats since the venom can be deadly to small pets, and only has a relatively mild effect on humans. According to the [National Parks Service of the United States of America (USA)](https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/dos-and-donts/animal-advisories/monitor-lizards), while the venom of a monitor lizard is not fatal to humans, "the main concern would be the bacterial infection from the bite." However, it is not enough reason for the public to kill monitor lizards out of fear, the CVO added. If the public encounter monitor lizards or other animals in their areas, the CVO urged residents to call the proper authorities. The CVO can be contacted using their hotline (8689-4514) or at their office at the barangay hall of San Isidro, located at San Jose Street corner Lorenzo, Sumulong Memorial Circle. Calling the CVO will ensure the safety of both the residents and their pets, it said. The Animal Control Team will also be able to safely relocate the animal to its proper habitat, the CVO added.
Jun-Andeng Ynares and CVO FB Page / MANILA BULLETIN
The resident surrendered the monitor lizard to the barangay, and was later turned over to the Antipolo City Animal Control Team upon responding to the report. The CVO explained that monitor lizards secrete venom that they use to kill their small prey. It noted that the lizards pose more danger to pet dogs and cats since the venom can be deadly to small pets, and only has a relatively mild effect on humans. According to the [National Parks Service of the United States of America (USA)](https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/dos-and-donts/animal-advisories/monitor-lizards), while the venom of a monitor lizard is not fatal to humans, "the main concern would be the bacterial infection from the bite." However, it is not enough reason for the public to kill monitor lizards out of fear, the CVO added. If the public encounter monitor lizards or other animals in their areas, the CVO urged residents to call the proper authorities. The CVO can be contacted using their hotline (8689-4514) or at their office at the barangay hall of San Isidro, located at San Jose Street corner Lorenzo, Sumulong Memorial Circle. Calling the CVO will ensure the safety of both the residents and their pets, it said. The Animal Control Team will also be able to safely relocate the animal to its proper habitat, the CVO added.