Rare monitor lizard rescued from children’s clutches
The yellow-headed monitor lizard, also known as the Mindanao water monitor or Cuming’s water monitor, is endemic to Mindanao.
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The yellow-headed monitor lizard, also known as the Mindanao water monitor or Cuming’s water monitor, is endemic to Mindanao.
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A yellow-headed monitor lizard (Varanus cumingi) was rescued in Barangay Puti, Norala, South Cotabato, recently through a joint effort by the barangay government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
According to the DENR, the reptile was turned over to personnel of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)-Banga after barangay officials responded to reports from residents.
Barangay officials said the monitor lizard was found being played with by children, prompting authorities to secure the animal to ensure the safety of both the residents and the reptile. It was kept at the barangay hall until DENR personnel arrived.
Upon receiving the reptile, DENR-CENRO Banga conducted the required documentation and assessment to determine its condition.
Following standard wildlife rescue protocols, the monitor lizard will be transferred to the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center in Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat, where it will undergo further evaluation, care and rehabilitation.
The facility temporarily houses rescued, surrendered and confiscated wildlife before they are considered for release into their natural habitat.
The yellow-headed monitor lizard, also known as the Mindanao water monitor or Cuming’s water monitor, is endemic to Mindanao and nearby islands. It is regarded as one of the world’s most brightly colored monitor lizards.
Previously classified as a subspecies of the common water monitor (Varanus salvator), it has since been recognized as a distinct species.
