Goanna Goanna A goanna is any of several Australian monitor lizards of the genus "Varanus", as well as certain species from Southeast Asia. Around 30 species of goanna are known, 25 of which are found in Australia. This varied group of carnivorous reptiles ranges greatly in size and fills several ecological niches. The goanna features prominently in Aboriginal mythology and Australian folklore. Being predatory lizards, goannas are often quite large, or at least bulky, with sharp teeth and claws. The largest is the perentie ("V. giganteus"), which can grow over in length. Not all goannas are gargantuan. Pygmy goannas may be
Goanna toxin-producing glands. The goanna's hefty tail can be dangerous when swung, much like a crocodile's tail; small children and dogs have been knocked down by such attacks. Often, victims in goanna attacks are bystanders, watching the person antagonising the goanna. Alarmed goannas can mistake standing humans for trees and attempt to climb off the ground to safety, which is understandably painful, as well as distressing for the human. Goannas are protected species throughout Australia. Goannas have a prominent place in the culture of indigenous Australians. This includes totemic and stories relationships, anthropomorphic representations in dreamtime stories, and as a food