[Animals] They find a strange reptile swimming in the piers of Xochimilco

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A Nile monitor lizard appeared on the Xochimilco jetty. Its origin is still unknown.
On August 1, several citizens warned about the presence of an alleged crocodile in the canals of the Callejón Chililico pier, in the Xochimilco mayor's office, Mexico City. Moments after the complaint, uniformed elements of the Ministry of Citizen Security captured the reptile specimen and guarded it. However, the hypotheses of the witnesses were wrong, it was not a crocodile.

What kind of reptile was it?
Authorities determined that the animal was a Nile monitor lizard, a large semi-aquatic predator from the African continent. Although the species is not native to Xochimilco, the conditions are optimal for this reptile. According to the National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO), the Nile Monitor is an invasive species because it threatens local biological diversity. This is one of the many cases of species introduced by humans to ecosystems where they do not belong.

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The Animal Surveillance Brigade rescued the Nile monitor lizard and was able to determine that it had already reached adulthood through the analysis of its scales. They also announced that the specimen is approximately 120 centimeters long. The SSC zootechnical team is carrying out a comprehensive assessment where the well-being of the reptile will be sought. Subsequently, the corresponding authorities will receive him and decide his fate, mentions the government agency in the official statement.

Where does this reptile come from?
The origin of monitor lizard is unclear. Some hypotheses suggest that he was sheltered in a house and escaped from captivity. The investigation continues but the Animal Surveillance Brigade of the SSC urges the po[CENSORED]tion in its statement to care for and not mistreat living beings at risk that are in Mexico City.

https://www.ngenespanol.com/animales/varano-del-nilo-reptil-en-xochimilco/